Hello! So I inherited a 1999 Ranger XLT 4x4 with a 4.0L SOHC engine from a 2001 Ranger that had stopped starting years ago due to the timing tensioners failing. I pulled the engine and tore it apart to find that every plastic tensioner had exploded into dozens of pieces, so I followed a guide on YouTube and used the proper OTC 6488 tool to get everything properly replaced and timed. Now that I've got the engine back in the truck turning the key cranks the engine over with no weird noises but it won't start, I checked and made sure that I've got a brand new battery with spark and fuel but it won't even sputter, spraying starting fluid down the intake made it backfire but nothing else. The sound almost reminds me of an engine that's timed 180 degrees out but I don't know how that would even be possible. Unfortunately, I know I must've done something wrong when I timed it but I don't have any previous experience with these engines so I don't know if I just missed something or did it completely wrong. I'd appreciate any other ideas before I just tear it apart again and would be happy to give out any other information, thanks!

 

Did you do the bottom end?
Remove spark plug #1 and turn the engine by hand to TDC.
Then put a stick into the cylinder and move the crank a bit each way to determine if it is indeed at TDC.
It's a start.

I've read the cam sprockets are not keyed (friction/jam fit). Did you tighten them enough (Did they move)?