I have a 2004 F150 Heritage, 4.2L, 6 cyl.

The other day, I was driving and felt something strike the firewall behind the pedals. The next day, while sitting at a red light, I heard something metal strike the ground under the truck, so I retrieved it.


Through some research, I've found that it's the driver's side engine lift bracket.

I also discovered another post on this forum (https://www.f150online.com/forums/v6...illing-me.html) where the same thing happened to another user in 2009. His piece sheared off at the exact same place as mine.

So... I'm a mechanical idiot. I need to know what my next step is... Do I need to get this part replaced? Do I need to take it to a mechanic? Is this a warning sign for a greater problem? Is there something else this could have damaged? Help!

 

Do you need it, only if your planning on removing the engine.

What I want to know is why 1 bolt came out and the other mounting part broke.

 

I have no idea... I was hoping for some insight from people who are more mechanically-savvy than myself.

 

When I replace my 4.2L engine, I also had the same issue on it, & its replacement.
Since yours hit the ground I would say: you have atleast one broken stud.
I had several between the two engines.

 

My guess is the bolts worked themselves loose. One bolt came out allowing the bracket to wedge itself between the firewall and after some time broke off.

Unless you plan on pulling the motor, it is no harm to have it off. Odd that it seems to be common. Bolts don't break on their own.

You have a nice paperweight.