I have the 2V 4.6 (150,000 miles) and basically concluded that my tick was the result of loud spark plugs and manifold leak

Turns out it was literally a ticking time bomb. The tick has probably been there for 2+ years

2 days ago I blew #3 spark plug out of the head and took the threads and coil pack with it. Most horrid noise I've ever heard a vehicle make.

Now the engine sounds brand new

I know this was an issue with previous models but don't see to many accounts of this happening on the NBS

So far this and clogged injector have been my only 2 engine problems

 

It doesn't happen very often, but there will be an occasional plug blowout with the 8 thread heads. This is why you should torque the plugs to 28 ft/lb instead of factory spec.

I hope you fixed it right with a Timesert.

 

You sure it actually pulled the threads and not just wiggled loose?

 

Yeah it blew out...i took it to ford and they let me see it. Ill mess with suspension/brake/belt driven stuff but i leave the engine alone