EP-CAMS2801 Camshaft Synchronizer for Ford Explorer Mercury Mountaineer 5.0L 1996-1998

The EP-CAMS2801 is a complete camshaft synchronizer for Ford Explorer 5.0L V8 (1996-1998) and Mercury Mountaineer 5.0L V8 (1997-1998). V8-specific unit — not interchangeable with 4.0L V6 synchronizers from the same Explorer generation. Ships with cam position sensor and timing alignment tool. Resolves P0340/P0341. Replaces F7TZ-12A362-AA / F7TZ-12A362-AC / CAMS2801 / 84-S2801 / 689-103. ISO 9001:2015, CE-EMC, UL, UKCA certified.

EP Aftermarket Ignition Distributor

EP-CAMS2801 — Camshaft Synchronizer for Ford Explorer 5.0L and Mercury Mountaineer 5.0L 1996-1998

Camshaft synchronizer · Ford Explorer 5.0L V8 1996-98 · Mercury Mountaineer 5.0L 1997-98 · Replaces F7TZ-12A362-AA · Sensor alignment tool included

ISO 9001:2015CE-EMCUKCAGlobal Export

Model

EP-CAMS2801

Type

Cam Synchronizer

Engine

5.0L 302 V8

App

Explorer/Mountaineer 1996-98

OEM

F7TZ-12A362-AA

Technical specifications

ParameterDetail
EP Model No.EP-CAMS2801
Product typeCamshaft Synchronizer Assembly with Cam Position Sensor
Vehicle applicationFord Explorer 5.0L V8 1996-1998 · Mercury Mountaineer 5.0L V8 1997-1998
EngineFord 5.0L (302 CID) V8 OHV
Years1996-1998
IncludesSynchronizer housing · Cam position sensor · Timing alignment tool
Replaces OEMF7TZ-12A362-AA · F7TZ-12A362-AC · CAMS2801 · 84-S2801 · 689-103
Diagnostic codesP0340 · P0341 · P0342 · P0343
CertificationISO 9001:2015 · CE-EMC · UL · UKCA
BrandEP (Ever-Power)

The EP-CAMS2801 is a complete camshaft synchronizer for the Ford Explorer equipped with the 5.0L (302 CID) V8 engine for 1996-1998, and the Mercury Mountaineer 5.0L V8 for 1997-1998. The 5.0L-equipped Explorer and Mountaineer are the most capable of the second-generation Explorer line, and the cam synchronizer is a documented maintenance item on high-mileage V8 examples.

Compatible With Ford Explorer 5.0L 1996-98; Compatible With Mercury Mountaineer 5.0L 1998. OEM F7TZ-12A362-AA is the primary Motorcraft reference for this application, with F7TZ-12A362-AC as a later revision. The Cardone 84-S2801 and Dorman 689-103 are common aftermarket cross-references, and AIP Electronics lists it as FD41 for this application.

The 5.0L V8 Explorer cam synchronizer occupies a different location and uses a different housing than the 4.0L V6 synchronizers in this series. Ships complete with cam position sensor and timing alignment tool.

EP camshaft synchronizer precision production equipment

Key features

Ford Explorer 5.0L V8 -- the performance Explorer application

The V8-powered Explorer and Mountaineer are the most sought-after for towing and performance -- EP-CAMS2801 serves this specific 5.0L V8 application.

Replaces F7TZ-12A362-AA and F7TZ-12A362-AC

Both revisions of the 5.0L V8 Explorer cam synchronizer OEM reference are covered.

Explorer 5.0L and Mountaineer combined coverage

Both the Explorer and its Mercury Mountaineer twin in 5.0L V8 configuration use the same synchronizer -- one SKU covers both.

Complete assembly with sensor and alignment tool

Ships with cam position sensor pre-installed and timing alignment tool for correct installation.

Vehicle fitment

MakeModelYearsEngine
FordExplorer 5.0L V81996-1998302 CID OHV V8
MercuryMountaineer 5.0L V81997-1998302 CID OHV V8

EP camshaft synchronizer full series compatibility overview

Application scenarios

Explorer 5.0L V8 P0340 CEL service

Explorer 5.0L V8 owners with P0340/P0341 CEL codes from cam synchronizer failure replace the unit with EP-CAMS2801.

Mercury Mountaineer 5.0L service

Mountaineer 5.0L V8 owners experiencing cam synchronizer failure use EP-CAMS2801 for the shared Explorer/Mountaineer V8 application.

V8 Explorer specialist wholesale

Parts distributors serving the V8 Explorer and Mountaineer specialist market stock EP-CAMS2801 alongside the 4.0L synchronizer variants for complete Explorer coverage.

Installation guide

The Ford Explorer 5.0L V8 cam synchronizer is accessible from the front of the engine. Set engine to TDC on cylinder 1 compression stroke. Mark the existing synchronizer housing and rotor orientation before removal. Disconnect the cam position sensor connector. Remove the hold-down bolt and withdraw the old synchronizer. Install EP-CAMS2801 in the same orientation. Use the included alignment tool to confirm the rotor vane is correctly positioned. Tighten the hold-down bolt to factory torque specification. Reconnect the sensor connector. Clear stored fault codes with an OBD scanner.

Need pricing or technical assistance?

We respond within 24 hours · MOQ as low as 1 unit · OEM/private-label available

Quality assurance

Every EP Camshaft Synchronizer is manufactured under ISO 9001:2015 certified quality management. Each unit is individually tested for cam position sensor signal accuracy, housing seal integrity, and shaft drive engagement before shipment. CE-EMC electromagnetic compatibility certification, UL listing, and UKCA conformity confirm compliance across all major export markets. Units ship complete with cam position sensor pre-installed and timing alignment tool -- no additional components required for direct OEM replacement.

EP ISO 9001 CE EMC UL UKCA enterprise certifications

More EP HEI distributors

ModelApplicationEngine
EP-CAMS2401Ford Ranger 2.3L 4CYL 1994-97 / Mazda B23002.3L Ranger/B2300
EP-CAMS2600Ford Ranger/Taurus/Windstar 3.0L Vulcan 1998-083.0L Vulcan 1998+
EP-CAMS2601Ford Mustang V6 3.8L/3.9L 1999-04 / FreestarMustang V6 1999-04
EP-CAMS2602Ford Mustang/Thunderbird/Cougar 19964.6L/3.8L 1996
EP-CAMS2603Ford Explorer/Ranger 4.0L 1996-99 (3-wire)4.0L 3-wire 96-99
EP-CAMS2604Ford Explorer/Ranger 4.0L 1996-97 sub-var4.0L 96-97 sub
EP-CAMS2605Ford Explorer/Ranger 4.0L 1992-95 early4.0L early 92-95
EP-CAMS2606Ford Taurus/Ranger/Windstar 3.0L 1995-973.0L Vulcan 95-97

About the manufacturer

EP (Ever-Power) — Automotive Ignition Specialist Since 1999

25+

Years in production

300+

Distributor models

80%

Export ratio

4

Certifications

EP (Ever-Power) has manufactured OEM-grade automotive engine components since 1999, exporting to aftermarket distributors, repair shops, and wholesale buyers across North America, Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. Our Camshaft Synchronizer series covers the complete range of OEM-replacement camshaft synchronizer assemblies for Ford, Mitsubishi, and Nissan EFI vehicles from the 1990s -- each unit shipping complete with the integrated camshaft position sensor and alignment tool included.

EP ignition distributor production line

ISO 9001:2015 quality management, CE-EMC certification, UL listing, and UKCA conformity cover every unit we ship. Each synchronizer is individually tested for sensor signal accuracy, housing seal integrity, and shaft engagement before shipment. Units ship complete with cam position sensor installed and timing alignment tool included. EP is part of the Ever-Power Group, also producing gear racks and a comprehensive range of mechanical transmission products.

Frequently asked questions

What is a camshaft synchronizer and how is it different from a distributor?
A camshaft synchronizer is a cam-driven position sensor assembly that replaced the traditional distributor on many Ford EFI engines of the 1990s. Like a distributor, it is driven by the camshaft and mounted in a similar location in the engine block -- but instead of routing high voltage to spark plugs, it contains a camshaft position sensor (CPS) that sends a digital signal to the EFI computer (ECM/PCM). The ECM uses this signal to precisely time fuel injection pulses and ignition firing. On these vehicles, ignition is handled by a separate coil-pack system, not by the synchronizer itself. The synchronizer provides only the camshaft timing reference signal -- but if this signal fails, the engine will not start or will run very poorly with CEL codes P0340, P0341, P0342, or P0343.
Does the EP-CAMS2801 ship with the cam position sensor and timing alignment tool?
Yes. The EP-CAMS2801 ships as a complete assembly including the synchronizer housing, the integrated camshaft position sensor pre-installed in the housing, and a timing alignment tool. The alignment tool is a C-shaped or window-type tool that clips onto the synchronizer during installation to confirm the rotor is positioned correctly relative to TDC before tightening the hold-down bolt. Using the alignment tool is critical -- reinstalling without it can result in a mistimed cam signal that causes immediate engine fault codes and poor running conditions. No additional components are required for direct OEM replacement.
Does the Ford Explorer 5.0L V8 use the same cam synchronizer as the Explorer 4.0L V6?
No. The Ford Explorer 5.0L V8 and the Explorer 4.0L V6 use completely different cam synchronizers. The 5.0L V8 uses EP-CAMS2801 (OEM F7TZ-12A362-AA), while the 4.0L V6 uses EP-CAMS2603 (OEM F67Z-12A362, 1996-1998) or EP-CAMS2607 (OEM XL5Z-12A362, 1999-2000). The V8 and V6 synchronizers are not interchangeable. Verify your engine is the 5.0L V8 (not the 4.0L V6) before ordering EP-CAMS2801.
What are the symptoms of a failing camshaft synchronizer?
The most common symptoms of a failing camshaft synchronizer include: Check Engine Light with diagnostic trouble codes P0340 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction), P0341, P0342, or P0343; intermittent no-start conditions where the engine cranks but will not fire; rough or erratic idle quality; hesitation or stumbling under acceleration; poor fuel economy from incorrect injection timing; and stalling at operating temperature. The synchronizer seal can also fail, allowing oil to leak around the housing. On Ford 4.0L OHV V6 applications, the synchronizer is a known high-failure-rate component, and many mechanics recommend proactive replacement on high-mileage Explorer and Ranger 4.0L engines.
How do I install the camshaft synchronizer correctly?
Correct installation of a camshaft synchronizer requires setting the engine to TDC (Top Dead Centre) on the number one cylinder compression stroke before removing the old synchronizer. Mark the position of the synchronizer housing and rotor on the old unit before removal so you can confirm the new unit goes in at the same orientation. After installing the new synchronizer, use the included alignment tool to verify the rotor position matches the correct timing mark before tightening the hold-down bolt. On Ford applications, the leading edge of the rotor's C-shaped vane must align with the timing mark visible through the synchronizer window when the engine is at TDC. Tighten the hold-down to factory torque specification. Failure to use the alignment tool results in a mistimed cam signal that immediately sets fault codes and causes rough running.
How do I order the EP-CAMS2801 for export or wholesale?
EP supports single-unit orders for market sampling, carton quantities for repair shops and parts counters, and container-volume wholesale orders. Standard production lead time is 15-30 days. OEM branding and private-label packaging are available for qualifying volumes. Contact our team via the inquiry form or WhatsApp for pricing and availability.

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Disclaimer: Ford, Mercury, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Mazda, Eagle, Plymouth, Motorcraft, and other brand names and OEM part numbers are used for product compatibility reference only. EP (Ever-Power) products are high-quality aftermarket replacement parts and are not affiliated with original vehicle or component manufacturers. Always verify fitment using the OEM part number on your existing synchronizer before ordering. All trademarks remain the property of their respective owners.

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Additional information

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Materials Available

1. Stainless Steel: SS201, SS303, SS304, SS316, SS416, SS420
2. Steel:C45(K1045), C46(K1046),C20
3. Brass:C36000 ( C26800), C37700 ( HPb59), C38500( HPb58), C27200(CuZn37), C28000(CuZn40)
4. Bronze: C51000, C52100, C54400, etc
5. Iron: 1213, 12L14,1215
6. Aluminum: Al6061, Al6063
7.OEM according to your request
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Surface Treatment

Annealing, natural canonization, heat treatment, polishing, nickel plating, chrome plating, zinc plating,yellow passivization, gold passivization, satin, Black surface painted etc.

Processing Method

CNC machining, punch,turning, milling, drilling, grinding, broaching, welding and assembly
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Technicians self-check in production,final-check before package by professional Quality inspector
ISO9001:2008 , ISO14001:2001,ISO/TS 16949:2009

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Size: Drawings
Wooden Case/Container and pallet, or as per customized specifications.
15-25days samples. 30-45days offcial order
Port: Shanghai/Ningbo port
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