Gates VCP978 Engine Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Sprocket - Exhaust
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Gates
 Engine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket

Gates VCP978 Engine Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Sprocket - Exhaust

Brand Gates VCP978
Position Exhaust
Material Steel
Chain Row Quantity 1
Outside Diameter 3.9
Mounting Hardware Included Yes
Height 1.45
Mounting Bolt Quantity 1
Grade Type Oe exact
Mounting Hole Quantity 1
Drive Type Timing chain
Tooth Quantity 40
Tooth Thickness .3
Product line Engine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
Fits Ford and Lincoln · 22 vehicles

OE exact fit. Built to OE specifications for fit, form, and performance.

Steel construction. Made from high-quality steel for durability and long service life.

Timing chain driven. Engine variable valve timing sprocket with 40 teeth.

Cross-references Gates VCP978 and CJ5Z 6C525 B for the same application. See all 2.

$133.63Free shipping
In stock · usually ships same day before 1pm CST
Step 1 — Confirm fitment
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Step 2 — Quantity
Order total $133.63
Free shipping to the continental U.S.
Free returns within 60 days if it doesn't fit when fitment is verified.
Not what you need? See all Engine Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Sprocket options

OE-Style VVT Sprocket for Ford and Lincoln

Gates VCP978 is an engine variable valve timing sprocket built to OE specifications for fit, form, and performance. This exhaust cam phaser is engineered with steel construction and OE Exact grade requirements to help restore proper valve timing response in Ford and Lincoln applications.

Compatible with select 2015-2020 Ford Mustang, 2016-2017 Ford Focus, 2017-2020 Ford Escape, 2017-2020 Ford Fusion, 2017-2018 Ford Edge, 2017-2018 Ford Explorer, 2017-2018 Lincoln MKC, and 2017-2018 Lincoln MKZ exhaust positions.

Key Features

  • OE Exact grade variable valve timing sprocket for exhaust-side applications
  • Steel construction for durability and service life
  • Timing chain drive type with 40 teeth
  • Outside diameter: 3.9 in.; height: 1.45 in.
  • Mounting hardware included; OE-style mounting bolt and hole configuration
  • Single-row chain design with 0.3 in. tooth thickness

Product Details

The Gates Engine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket line is designed for OE performance and direct replacement needs. VCP978 is commonly referred to as a cam phaser or cam actuator and is built to restore engine timing control in vehicles that rely on variable valve timing for drivability, fuel economy, power delivery, and emissions performance. Gates VCP978 is a direct-fit exhaust VVT sprocket for the listed Ford and Lincoln models, including Ford Mustang, Ford Escape, and Lincoln MKZ applications.

This part cross-references CJ5Z 6C525 B for the same application.

What It Helps Address

  • Rough idle related to inconsistent cam timing
  • Check engine lights tied to VVT system faults
  • Loss of low-end torque or reduced throttle response
  • Fuel economy decline caused by timing control issues
  • Emissions concerns linked to worn cam phaser operation

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify engine code, exhaust position, and OE part number before installation. Inspect the timing chain system, guides, and related components for wear before replacing the sprocket. Follow factory timing procedures and torque specifications during service to maintain correct camshaft synchronization.

Quality Assurance

Gates manufactures this VVT sprocket to OE specifications using high-quality materials and testing focused on restoring engine performance, fuel economy, power output, and emissions control. Part number VCP978 is built for direct replacement use in the listed Ford and Lincoln exhaust applications.

Related reading

This part fits 22 vehicles
Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
YearMakeModelLitersCylindersFuel TypePositionNotes
2020FordEscape2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2020FordFusion2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2019FordEscape2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2019FordFusion2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2018FordEdge2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2018FordEscape2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2018FordExplorer2.3LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2018FordFusion2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2018FordMustang2.3LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2018LincolnMKC2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2018LincolnMKZ2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2017FordEdge2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2017FordEscape2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2017FordExplorer2.3LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2017FordFocus2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2017FordFusion2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2017FordMustang2.3LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2017LincolnMKC2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2017LincolnMKZ2.0LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2016FordFocus2.3LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2016FordMustang2.3LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
2015FordMustang2.3LL4GASExhaustEngine Variable Valve Timing Sprocket
Directly replaces or cross-references 2 part numbers
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.
Gates — VCP978CJ5Z 6C525 B