Well, im not really new. I have been a member here for quite a while now. I used to own an 02 supercab F150 Sport 4x4. Traded that a few years ago, and went in the bowtie direction. Well, I have outgrown my current chevy. So, tomorrow I pick up my new to me 04 Supercab FX4 It has 50,000 miles and looks to have been very well maintained. Its black on black with some silver on the interior. I gotta say, this FX4 package is AWSOME! So I guess this is Hi to all again.

Does anyone know of anything I really to to be aware of to look for before I take delivery? Its the 5.4l, I already noticed it has the "diesel" sound that people are explaining here on the forum. So the thats just a "normal noise" that goes with the 04 5.4? Thanks in advance, Greg

 

If it already sounds like a diesel, you don't want it unless you're ready to throw another $3000.00 at it to get it fixed. This year 5.4 was also known for the multi piece spark plugs which can get expensive to replace- yet another $3000.00 if the heads have to come off. The early 2004's were known for a frame vibration. It occurs between 45-60 mph and kinda feels like going over the ripples on the side of the hiway just not as severe.

 

Welcome back and congrats on the newer truck! FX4 is an awesome package. Typical things to look for, make sure all the windows operate well, some have problems with sticking the regulators go bad. Sometimes the rear sliding glass doesn't move you have to grease the slider with white grease so it dont' gum up. Spark plugs tend to wanna stay in the heads you have to watch how you take them out. See if yours already had a plug change on it. There is a recall/tsb procedure on how to take them out. Many where successful at taking them out. Ball joints tend to go out early check to see if yours look good even with 50k. If the plugs need change I suggest you do it soon, replace with factory plugs, grease the shank with nickel antisieze and you'll be good to go. Others will chime in soon. Need any other info just ask.

 

I already felt this frame vibration once. Is there a fix for it? I was told that it is very unpredictable and my only happen once, or may happen quite often.

 

Ford threw a lead weight on the frame behind the drivers side rear wheel to dampen the vibration. It only kinda works as the vibe is still there. But if the truck has it- it will always have it.
In regards to the diesel sound, it's caused by faulty cam phasers. They are expensive to replace. Another problem with this years model are the brakes. The rotors won't last long and replacements will come early. If there is any surging of the brake pedal during a stop, the rotors will have to be replaced. Turning the OEMs only buys you a lighter wallet as they will again warp...and soon. Look for a leaking DOT light too. These were common on this YM. That's the brake light above the back window. Look at the outside door panels where the window curves at the bottom rear of the door above the door handle. Look for cracks or repairs. Some of the trucks had cracks in this area and will repeat if the entire panel is not replaced. Personally, I'd avoid the YM 2004 and I wouldn't own a 5.4 if it were given to me- they've been nothing but problems for Ford and is soon to be replaced. The 4.6 has been on Wards Ten Best Engines List for several years and is a dandy but it's no race engine or for any heavy pulling. It's an able engine with long life and gets decent fuel mileage. Issues for the YM and newer trucks have been next to nothing for the 4.6. If yer looking for a recommendation, I'd suggest looking for the 4.6. But if you NEED the power, I'd suggest moving up to an F-250 and a diesel if you can afford it.

 

welcome again good luck on the new truck they are great trucks i love mine i have a 06 cant wait for pics! got anything you are thinking about doing to it?