I'm getting ready to install cam tensioners in next few days, is it necessary to put timing in any certain position to maybe free up chain as much as possible. I've read where once tensioner is pumped up it's very hard to compress and get started

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2003 ranger XLT 4.0 4x4 plain jane

I'll be doing tensioners soon also.
I've read they are very hard to compress when primed and you could strip the threads in the head easily.
I plan to put them in unprimed because they pump up very quickly and should make the install easier.
I don't think it matters if you're on TDC, but trying to install pre-primed can be difficult and a little more dangerous as far as stripping threads go.

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2009 Ranger Sport 4L V6 RWD

I read the same, my only fear of unprimed is could the chain jump time. That would be bad on the front but a nightmare on the rear chain. I was hoping if it was in time the chain would be at it loosest position but probably not I guess

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2003 ranger XLT 4.0 4x4 plain jane

I don't think the chain would jump time. I'm new to these engines,but a fair bit of experience in Harley V Twins. I wish HD chain tensioners were as easy to replace as these Ford 4l engines. Heh.
From what I researched on this the tensioners are hydraulic with a spring and when they wear out,like mine and yours are,the oil bleeds off and the spring gets weaker.
I've installed HD hydraulic lifters in HD's without priming and they'll tick for about 30 seconds before they pump up,then they're fine.
I'm pretty sure the spring will hold tension until they pump up,so really no danger of jumping timing. I'm sure if you wanted to roll the engine until you're at TDC on compression stroke on #1 cylinder certainly won't hurt,but I don't think it's necessary.
I think the only chance to jump timing would be if you fired it up without the tensioners in at all,but that's only my opinion, because, I'm still brand new on any knowledge abut these engines.
Keep me posted on how you make out and I'll do the same when mine arrive in the mail,they're a couple of weeks late already.

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2009 Ranger Sport 4L V6 RWD

Hoping this weekend I'll get to it, I forgot to get the gasket for thermostat housing or maybe it's oring not sure so I'll grab that tomorrow and get it done

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2003 ranger XLT 4.0 4x4 plain jane

Thanks for the reminder, I'll have to pick one up...

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2009 Ranger Sport 4L V6 RWD