Well I live in an apartment which cuts down my ability to solve issues like I would in a garage. Cold out today too. Anyway the truck started having issues after replacing the catalytic converter. These issues correspond with the PIC included in this post. A common problem for my 2000 Ranger 3.0 FF. Most videos I have seen are pretty simple for removing the cam sync. The bolt heads are 5.5 mm. It is a little difficult to get to. But it appears that I have stripped both 5.5 mm bolt heads. They are very tiny and I don't know if a vice grip will even be able to grab them. If I had a Dremel I could just cut the heads off. I could break the plastic top off but my only problem there is that the cam synchronizer will move. I need it to stay where it is so I can mark it. Maybe it will not move since it is bolted in place. Anyway the bolt heads are very small. I shot them with penetrating oil yesterday. The cap is plastic so heat is out of the question. Plus it is about 12-14" down and I have to use an extension to get to it. Looking for some advice. Maybe someone has a tip.

 

You are just going to have to pull the synchronizer out , don't see anyway around that

And re-time replacement

You can put the engine at TDC 0deg first
Then mark the syncro housing with a mark that points at another mark on the intake
Pull out the synchro and don't let the gear spin after removal, if possible put a mark on gear and housing
Then try to remove sensor

They are a pain to re-time but can be re-timed

 

Thank you.