Hello,
I recently purchased a 1999 F-150 Step Side 4.6L (220hp) 4x4 manual transmission with low kilometers (135000 kms) and it runs fairly good. It's my first truck and first ford so obviously i don't know a whole lot about either. So to educate myself, i've been reading alot on ford trucks, especially my model and engine size. I am thinking of changing the sparks plugs and wires (not sure if the plugs are bad, but thought i ask some questions before i decide if i want to change them myself or let a mechanic do it, i know a lil bit about cars and trucks but limited in my knowledge), so i've got a few questions:

What brands are the best plugs and wires for my truck?

Is it quite a difficult job to change the plugs on the 4.6l v8? (i've replaced the plugs in my car before but it's only a 4cyliner,so it was quite simple)

I've read there are issues where the plugs will break easily when taking it out or the plugs blowing, is this true with the 99 f150 4.6l and should i be concerned if i decide to change the plugs myself? should i be concerned about plugs blowing out? (are there precautions to take to prevent this from happening?)

If i take it to a mechanic, how many hours will they charge for labor? (will i be responsible for the extra cost if the mechanic breaks a plug?)

Should i go with a one piece plug? (i've read the factory ones are 2piece)

Anything else i should know before i attempt to change them myself?

I apologize if my post or questions sound silly to anyone as i am new to site and new to the truck world but i figure i give it a shot and see what kind of help i can get.

I appreciate any feedbacks that will help me out and learn more about my truck. If there is anything else i should know about 99 f150's even if it's not on this topic, please feel free to post it, thank-you.

And i love owning a truck so far and have really take a liking to my f150.

thanks for the help, take care

 

You are confusing your setup with the 04+ 5.4 3v, those are the 2 piece plugs that stick and break. The only issue with yours are the short threads which can allow loosening and blowout.

Use OEM Motorcraft plugs and wires, and do NOT use antiseize. Torque them to 28 ft/lb.

Book labor for a plug change is around 2 hours and a wire change is about 1 hour.

 

Actually "book" charge for a plug swap is about 3hrs (2.9 to be exact).

 

thanks glc and jbrew for the quick response!!!
it's good to know i don't have the break issues with the plugs. i think i will use the motorcraft plugs and wires as u suggested, but what is the reason for not using antiseize? thanks!

 

The plug threads are nickel-plated, eliminating the need for antiseize. Use of antiseize contributes to the blowout issue.

Brew - 2.9 on the 2V? I thought that was book on the 3V.

 

my only advice would be to make sure you have a good torque wrench that allows you to hit that 28ft/lb mark fairly closely - over torque can break plugs and under torque can lead to blow-out as mentioned above. other than that, make sure you have the right extensions for your wrench so that you're not running to the store when you're half way through (like I did the first time I changed plugs)

as mentioned above too - when in doubt...use motorcraft

 

Nah, I recall it taking about an hour just getting to them, that's @ a fairly steady pace. So about three hours covering all the bases is close.

Well, here you go, -Labor Times ~

 

thanks glc, blackout n jbrew!!!
i really appreciate your help. really glad i found this site, it's been really good so far.
take care

 

Question regarding plugs: I have a 99 4.6 Romeo and besides the Motorcraft plugs, have heard that the Denso Iridiums are a great and safe upgrade. I know they are expensive, but has anyone had/heard of problems with these?

 

No problems here, I've been running them for 2 years now. I believe Motorcraft has Fine Wires for the 4six. They just didn't have them for the 5four, so I went with Denso's. No one has a problem with those. NGK's are good as well.