friends 1998 transit timing belt snapped doing 30mph in fourth slowing down in traffic nothing locked up so was going to just replace belt and tensioner n hope can wing it prob is i know timing marks are 8mm pins but do i need to find tdc on no1 or just use the pins thanks (would it be a wise idea to change puishrods as matter of course?

b bear, January 2009

To clarify my previous answer OHC is overhead cam, the transit has a rocker arm rather like the old fiesta engine.
I think they called it the Essex engine but don't quote me on it.

Dave the wrench., January 2009

As "the clown" says the engine has push rods, it is overhead cam (ohc). It is worth putting the belt on and turning over by hand. If nothing locks up then give it a whirl assuming you haven't bent the push rods away you go. If it doesn't fire recheck the belt, if it's on properly then off with the head, new set of rods, gasket etc.. I'm doing mine tomorrow morning as the belt went this evening..
When changing push rods, do not forget to check valve clearance.
It's very unlikely (in my experience) that any further damage will have occured, but it's not unknown.
OHC engines with side valves is an old design, still some current vehicles use it, the push rods act on valves lower down, these are a pain in the arse to change. I know because i've done many in the course of my years as a mechanic. "Mr blackcloud" this last part is for your information and to clear up any misunderstandings before a troll arrives.

Dave the wrench., January 2009

Engine has pushrods.

The Clown, January 2009

There's 3 pins.1 goes into the flywheel thru the backplate down by the starter.and one each in the injection pump and camshaft.There are no pushrod on a engine with an overhead cam.Your chances of no engine dammage are slim.

blackcloud, January 2009