2003 Variable Cam Timing Solenoid seal / gasket remove-replace question | Ford Thunderbird forum club group 1955-2005 models

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2003 Variable Cam Timing Solenoid seal / gasket remove-replace question

  • Thread starter Thread starter Bill_W
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Bill_W

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2003
Oil is leaking around the Variable Cam Timing Sensor where it passes through the valve covers. The seals need to be replaced. My library provides online access to the Chilton manual for the Thunderbird but there isn't any description or detail on seal removal. I haven't found anything directly applicable on YouTube where I often can see what's involved for a repair before getting in over my head. Has anyone on the forum had experience replacing these seals or can otherwise offer any suggestions? Thanks in advance!

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  • Disconnect the battery ground cable.
  • Remove the components in the order indicated in the illustration and table.
doug7740
1955 Thunderbird Blue

Camshaf Solenoid.jpg
 
My mechanic described the leaking part as the Variable Valve Timing sensor (VVT). From the Chilton manual it looks like they call it the Variable Camshaft Timing Oil Control Solenoid (VCT?). In the attached screenshot from Chilton, the leak is near part #3. Part 3 is actually the electrical connector to the sensor. The leak is at the seal for the sensor that part #3 connects to, where it passes through the valve cover. (component to the left of #3 in the zoomed view) I'm curious whether I have to remove the valve cover to remove/replace the sensor seal (gasket) or if it is possible to pull the seal off the sensor from above? Thanks!
(first time posting to the forum with a picture - hope it's there)
 

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Bill_W said:
Oil is leaking around the Variable Cam Timing Sensor where it passes through the valve covers. The seals need to be replaced. My library provides online access to the Chilton manual for the Thunderbird but there isn't any description or detail on seal removal. I haven't found anything directly applicable on YouTube where I often can see what's involved for a repair before getting in over my head. Has anyone on the forum had experience replacing these seals or can otherwise offer any suggestions? Thanks in advance!
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I have the same issue. I have not found any help with seal replacement. I ordered new seals from my local Ford dealer. $20.00 each. Just not sure how I will be able to replace seals??
 
My nearby Ford dealer's service department said they won't take the 2003 T-bird because it's more than 10 years old and I'm not a "recent" customer. I've been driving Fords since I was 17. I didn't know that keeping them on the road for 20+ years was something Ford frowned upon.
 
I have seals ordered. I looked up 3.9 jaguar engine and it had information on changing the seals. I will attempt replacement next week and let you know how it goes. Looks pretty simple. Remove seals not the sensor
 
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