2000 winstar problems

A friend of mine bought a 2000 Windstar last year and is having two issues, A sqeaking noise when cold, and he found a pc of linkage just laying in the engine compartment.(see photo). So far looks to be something other than pumps or tensioner. I saw a post concerning this and ia appears to be syncronizer?? Hard to replace if that is it or can he leave it as is?
Also what in the heack is this thing?
http://i787.photobucket.com/albums/yy158/JSGOLD2009/ford002.jpg

This is one of the two links between the electric (motor) actuator and the Intake Manifold Runner Control. Held in place with small plastic clips/bushings. Hard to get just right ... so they will not pop loose. Do some searches on IMRC.

There may be a problem with the synchronizer ... but that is a separate issue .... tho located close-by.

It depends if your friend have the 3.0L or the 3.8L engine.
In the 3.0L engine, the synchronizer is at driver side of the engine.
In the 3.8L, it's at passenger side. Very close to the pumps.

Yes, bad synchroniser can make sqeaking noise if their bearings are worn..