I just bought my son a 2005 Mustang v6 convertible. The previous owner said it needed a harmonic balancer, but surprise! It needs an engine. Here is my dilemma, I pulled the motor today and found a used engine at a local junkyard for 1000. I really can’t replace the timing chain before I install due to the complexity. Should I try to replace the timing guides in the front and hope for the best? Can I even replace the guides without messing up the timing?
or do I just throw it in?

 

If you have the tools and the know how to remove and install a whole engine, you sure as hell should be able to change a timing chain. Should be a lot of youtube video's on how to do it. I use youtube to find out how to do almost everything I do around the house and to my vehicle's. If you find and watch a few videos and you feel like it is still over your head, just put the newer engine in........Good luck