I did the search and found some answers but I'm not clear on it it's just the top that needs replacing (25 bucks at autozone) or the whole assembly. Where would one find the whole assembly? I hear a squeaking noise just like a belt but I took the belt off and it's definitely coming from the rear of the engine so I'll assume that's what it is. The squeaking stops when you slightly rev the engine. It has 140k so nothing would really surprise me and she don't owe me a thing but I don't want to buy parts that aren't needed. Thanks. Great forum. Forgot to add it's a 2000 with the 3.0 Flex

 

Try Rockauto i believe they carry them.

 

The squeak originates in the Synchronizer drive but can destroy the CMP sensor if it goes on long enough. The shaft in the Synchronizer can also seize to the body, strip the cam gear and stop the oil pump - never a good thing.

Aftermarket Synchronizer/CMPs have a bad rep for poor fit and early failure. The genuine Ford parts are more expensive but they are worlds better than the copies.

 

Not easy to get to and I can't find the timing marks. Starting to think it's more trouble than it's worth. The guide on here that tells you how to do it says turn the engine until the tool enganges and that it doesn't matter if it's on compression or intake stroke. Is that true? Missing the old days right now for sure.

 

You dont even have to do that just make a few different marks and reference points and some pictures and just pull the old one out and drop the new one in...just make sure its lined up just like the last. Ive done this on distributors before when i swapped head gaskets...worked like a charm.

Just my .02

 

You are the man! Made a couple of marks and fifteen minutes later I'm rolling down the highway testing it out. Thanks a lot guys.

 

Good to hear! Enjoy!

 

My ranger has 167,000 miles and the cam synchronizer started squeaking around 150,000 miles and I never replaced it. It has stopped squeaking and I don't really want to replace it even though I know damage is possible.

 

The Synchronizer turns a short driveshaft that turns the oil pump. So, 'possible damage' includes anything up to and including destroying the engine. IMO, replacing the synchronizer is a better option.