I wouldn't worry about an auto shop changing my plugs. I mean any person with common sense and some time under thier belt would know that if he can't do it, to tell the customer. "Sorry sir, we cant do this job, I would take it to the ford dealer." No harm, no foul. That link to the site posted above was just a guy going way too far. FYI: I got platinum for my truck and bought them from the ford dealer at $7 bucks a piece. So my estimate was off, by about 25 bucks. I finally decided to go with a local dealer here for 175, plus I provided he plugs. Oh well, if he FLUCKS it up, I think the army will def take my side in making sure he pays to fix it. If not, I'll be sure to take my squad and break his legs and arms, and use his skull for a hood ornament.

And yes, I have a 2001 lariat 5.4 2wd supercab.

 

I changed the plugs on my 99 5.4L. Took 2 hours, IIRC, including a trip to Sears for something. I think it could be done in 45 minutes and I tihnk Neal thre HP Freak can do it in under 25 min. But the book rate labor is something like 4 hours, so that';s what most chops will charge times their hourly rate plus parts.

BTW, I used NGK Iridium plugs on my 99 and plan to do the same on my 03 when I get closer to 80k miles. I changed them on my 99 with 60k and the plugs were in great shape, a benefit of the platinum grounds and COP.

 

Here you go, maybe this will give you some confidence.
http://www.rmftc.com/howtos/sparkplugs/sparkplugs.html

FWIW, I've done them several times and it's still always a nightmare and takes about 2-3 hours minimum. And that's if everything goes well. If youi've got hte money lying around, pay someone to do it.

 

My husband changed the ones in my truck. I can't remember how long it took him or what the plugs cost but it sure was a lot less expensive than handing over $300!!!

 

I'd love to get paid four hours to replace plugs in an F150. But that just won't happen.