Alright! Following the latest TSB, I've pulled out seven plugs thusfar and no breakages!!

Now, the last one is the rear plug on the passenger side. I can not find a good way to get to this plug. Are there any good tips or tricks for this one??

Needing a little help,

Don

 

I've not changed them myself, but I understand you need to remove the computer from the firewall and use swivel extensins

 

Bigg Don,

What penetrant did you use? How long did you let it soak? Yeah I heard you need to take the PCM off the firewall to get access to the firewall plug on the passenger side.

 

It can be taken out without removing the PCM....get an extension just long enough to get a flex head ratchet under the heater hose and behind the throttle body, it's possible and not all that bad to get at once you get the right length...personally I would stay away from any universals and swivels, I like to go straight in at the plug so it won't snap the tip off.

 

Bubba,

I used the Motorcraft Carb. Cleaner per the TSB. My local dealer parts dept. looked at me crossed eyed when I asked for it and the nickel anti-sieze. Had to explain that if the TSB called it out, I didn't want to sub out to another brand in case there was a slight difference. However, the parts guy did go and get a partial can of the carb. cleaner from a svc. tech and gave it to me!! Thought that was pretty sweet.

 

It's scary that we know more about Ford's own procedures for simple maintenance than the people who work for them!......

 

Isn't that the truth.......

 

Wheeww!!!!

Well, that's over. I removed the PCM and was able to get to that last plug. Thanks for the help!!!

Now, I need to help a buddy with a 05 Exped. and the same headache. Hopefully, it can wait for a couple of weeks.

 

What mileage interval did you change them out at?........

 

Mine was at 90K. The plugs did not look too bad. But I was more scarred of the carbon buildup than the high mileage.

 

Bigg Don,

How long did you soak the plugs for prior to removal?

 

Kuddos to you,your efforts, & another succesful plug change on a 5.4!....

 

Easy Chief...some of us know what is going on......

Congrats on the plug removal Bigg Don...wasn't all that bad now was it? Don't feel bad, I do these for a living and I was sweating bullets doing mine last Friday.....the first one came out with no troubles however the other seven made up for it.......SCREEECH is not a friendly word....

 

FordTech1,

Did the other 7 brake, or just came out screeching??? Do you know what length extension you use for the passenger side firewall plug?

 

They didn't break, just REAL tight coming out. It figures one of the tightest sets I have done were my own vehicle. (25,000 miles...05 model year)

I'm not sure of the exact length of the extension, 4-6 inches maybe, and I use a long handle flex head ratchet. Just tall enough to get the wrench on by the heater hose. The PCM is easy to pull though, not a bad way to do it, The less we have to take apart the better for us flat rate guys .