What Is a Cam Phaser?

The cam phaser is designed to advance and retard timing of the valves in relation to the pistons.

A quick review online will reveal that cam phasers have been a significant issue in several 3-valve Ford engines.

What Is Cam Phaser Knock?

Some suggest the problem is from a lack of oil pressure to bring oil to the phasers. This may be caused by a failed O ring or some other problem that results in low oil pressure to the area.  The lack of oil pressure or proper lubrication can result in the cam phasers not advancing the timing – a retarded cam timing can result in detonation that shows up as noise. This can cause the components to wear or even break causing even more damage and problems. 

This problem is reported as a “cam phaser knock”, “cam phaser tick”, “cam phaser noise at idle”, “noisy phasers”, and probably other names as well. Most people notice the noise and seek solutions.

Ford's Solution: PlanetSafe Lubricants OT

A Ford dealer in Utah reported they fixed cam phaser knock for customers by using PlanetSafe Lubricants Oil Treatment as an additive.

Data provided to them by PlanetSafe Lubricants showed after adding PlanetSafe OT to used car engines sitting on a sales lot in St George, Utah, every engine made less noise after adding the OT. It worked in minutes.

How Does It Eliminate Cam Phaser Knock?

The main contribution that PlanetSafe OT makes is to bond a nano-layer of lubricant to all the metal parts in the engine.  This provides some protection from wear even when oil pressure is not as high as it should be.  The added lubrication reduces further wear and prevents heat build up and potential corrosion.  Beyond lubricating the cam phasers, PlanetSafe OT is also lubricating the cam itself and the cylinder walls to help reduce friction and wear as well. For more information visit this page on how to use PlanetSafe OT.

Integrity Autoworks out of McGregor Texas suggests the following vehicles/engines might develop the cam phaser issue:  

4.6L engine:

• Ford Mustang GT 2005-2010
• Ford Mustang Bullitt 2008-2009
• Ford Explorer 2006-2010
• Mercury Mountaineer 2006-2010
• Ford Explorer Sport Trac 2007-2010
• Ford F-150 2009-2010

5.4L Engine:

• Ford Facom/Futura/Fairmont 2002-2007
• Ford Fairlane G220 2003-2004
• Ford LTD 2003-2007
• Ford Fairlane G8 2005-2007
• Ford F-150 2004-2010
• Ford F-250 2004-2010
• Ford F-350 2004-2010
• Ford Expedition  2005-2014
• Lincoln Navigator 2004-2014 

Use of Oil Treatment (OT) for Ford Cam Phasers

Since that first reporting of PlanetSafe OT quieting down the cam phaser knock, we have received reports from many Ford owners telling us that they also found the cam phaser knock went away with treatment.  We have been straightforward with each person who buys PlanetSafe OT for the purpose of remedying the cam phaser knock issue, by stating that PlanetSafe OT is not a mechanic in a bottle. The knock may be more serious than a lack of proper lubrication. If that is the case, then the fix is beyond PlanetSafe OT.

We simply think that if the knock is caught early enough and it is beginning because of a lack of proper lubrication, then PlanetSafe OT will likely be a significant help, maybe even avoiding costly repair bills.  But, if wear has been enough that getting proper lubrication restored can’t prevent further wear and the possibility of failure, then PlanetSafe OT will not be a real solution. We think many customers purchase PlanetSafe OT because they do not know how much wear has occurred and they hope proper lubrication will help them avoid more costly repairs.

Buy the eco-friendly lubrication and solve your cam phaser issue.