The car runs pretty well. I think this mechanic is honest (I know he's competent) -- may I assume a vehicle with 62K miles probably needs a new timing belt, just because it's a 2001?

 

Sam at 62k miles all you need to do is replace the secondary's chain plastic tensioner with the new metal tensioners that's all. Do a search under tensioner replacement here there are many posts on the subject.

 

This is actually a 2000 model (always a year later in the States).
At 62K should be no dramas. ;o)

These engines do not use timing belts, they are fitted with chains.
Both primary and secondary.
Primary up from the crank sprocket to both exhaust cams.
Secondary chains run from exhaust cams to inlet cams.
4.0 litre NA (Normally Aspirated) engines have their inlet cams controlled by a two stage VVT (Variable valve Timing) unit.

This model year AJ27 engine family will be fitted with 2nd gen. plastic tensioners and the secondary tensioners should be replaced with 3rd gen. metal bodied tensioners for piece of mind.
The chains will be OK.

 

Good explanation, however,....small correction. Primary chain runs from the crankshaft to both INTAKE cams (not exhaust), VVT units (on the NA engines, AJ26 and AJ27) are attached to INTAKE cams, and the exhaust cams are connected to the intake cams with secondary timing chains.

I just finished my VDP two days ago (see my post "UPDATE!!). And I was in it with my two hands (not reading it somewhere).

There is NO WAY that the car with that low mileage needs timing chain replacement. It NEEDS (the sooner the better) tensioners! This is a DIY repair, and if you can change the spare wheel (operate wrenches and/or sockets), you can DIY. The kit for this repair is available on Ebay (seller "Christopher's Foreign Auto" - highly recommended!) for $300.

In the kit you get valve cover gaskets (spark plug gaskets included), two tensioners (with their bolts), and two secondary chains with master links.

DIY procedure is described (and filmed on video) on this, and many other forums, and Youtube. If you don't feel comfortable doing it, you can always call me (drop me a PM for a phone#), and I'll walk you through it.

Trust me,.......it is so simple to do, it's rediculous. If you have extra money, and are not sure what to do with it,.....pay the mechanic!

 

. . . and for about $150 if you buy the tensioners/bolts from a Ford/Lincoln dealer and the Felpro gasket set from RockAuto. No chains. 2002 Lincoln LS/Ford Thunderbird 3.9L engine.

 

ABSOLUTELY! (IF you don't have to drive 3-4 hours through SoCal traffic to get to the dealer that has it in stock, and IF you don't have to spend 40-50 minutes on hold while the parts departments bounce you back and forth)

 

Check sunroadfordparts.com. You can order on line. My cost was under $140 with shipping a year and a half ago.

 

Ordered from Christopher off EBay, $147 for tensioners and shorter bolts.

With Dan, seriously doubt you need a chain. Easy swap, go slow: read every thread. So one side at a time. Maybe new plugs while you are there.