I've got an '01 F150 with the 5.4 in it and I've always noticed some sounds that to me just don't sound right.

1. The power steering pump whines and hisses. I know this is comman with Fords but is there a fix?

2. There is a slight ticking that comes from the engine bay, it sounds like an exhaust leak at the manifold. And when driving next to buildings it seems to be louder, which also leads me to believe it's an exhaust leak. Are the stock manifolds known to leak?

Any and all help is appreciated!

Mickey

 

answers...

1: yes, power steering noise is a ford thing, just make sure it is full and after driving a few miles check it to see if it is foamy (air) or milky (water) in the system

2: 5.4 are notorious for breaking exhaust manifold bolts. my 99 has 4 broke on the pass side...

 

What is the remedy for having air or water in the power steering system?

And how difficult is it to install new bolts? And is it best to go factory or aftermarket?

Mickey

 

if you're going to go aftermarket, longtube headers are the only route by which you will see some good power gains. however, further exhaust work/modification is required to run them. despite their hype, shorties net you no hp/tq.

 

I would like to put on a set of long tubes, but I don't know of anybody around my area that will mess with the cats.

But for the bolts them selves, is there something better than factory that won't break?

Mickey