The Ford 4.0 liter SOHC - V6 engine has ( 3 ) timing CHAINS ( 2 chains at the
front of the engine and 1 chain at the back of the engine going to the
passenger side cylinder head )
This truck has a timing chain, not a belt. The chain will last longer than a belt and should not be replaced until it fails.
A 1997 Ford Explorer , 5.0 litre / 302 cubic inch V8 engine has ( 1 ) timing CHAIN
There is not any set time as they very seldom go bad.
The 98 explorer has three timing chains. The front two can be replaced by removing the fan, fan shroud, serpentine belt and water pump. The rear chain can not be replaced unless the engine is pulled from the explorer to gain access.
The timing belt should be replaced every 100,000 miles.
I am almost certain that the timing chain should last throught the life of the Explorer.
The Explorer 4.0 does not have a timing belt. Both the regular 4.0 or SOHC model have timing chains. The SOHC, I think has the timing chain at the back of the engine.
It has a timing belt that should be replaced every 90,000 miles. The water pump should also be replaced as it is driven by the cam belt.
never needs to be replaced
If I remember correctly the dealer told me it would cost ~$550.
It doesn't have a timing belt. It has a timing chain and it will last the life of the engine.
the manufacture reccomends it be replaced in 90,000 miles