ASF42P SPARK PLUGS. Gap maybe .042 or .046

May also be .052. I can't remember when the changed.

You may also be able to use a copper plug. ASF42C. Both part numbers are motorcraft.

Oh yeah, just to be safe............check your emissions sticker to make sure these are the right plug numbers.
good luck.

MK

------------------
MIKE KIEVIT
1996 EXPLORER XLT
1997 F150 2WD(2ND OWNER)
1999 COBRA

[This message has been edited by MKTRUCK (edited 07-17-2000).]

 

Sunday's Results

First thing I did is check the slack in the timing chain. A sixteen inch pull arm only had about an inch of travel at the end of the handle when I rocked the bottom end back and forth. No question that the plastic gear may shatter at any time but the timing chain isn't likely to be the cause of the pinging.

Then I drug out my old Mac timing light. Verified it was working and found the distributer advance was fifteen degrees. Specifications call for ten. I loosened the distributer hold down and attempted to time the engine. My timing light died and the bulb is hard soldered in. Cursed and complained and power tuned the thing. I have it set where it doesn't ping, doesn't overheat, and seems to have reasonable power. I'll let my brother burn a tank of gas through it then try mid-grade instead of premium gas and see what happens. I'll either get another timing light or haul the truck into a shop shortly to set the timing properly too. I have to admit I'll first note where it is at if it is working well.

Spark plugs are a good idea too. Sometimes dropping a heat range helps. Problem is that parts houses don't seem to stock any variety anymore. I'll check around for the part numbers mentioned.

Thanks to All. I'll post hopefully a final report in a week or so.

Hu

 

Would my '91 F-150/302 be running a little warmer than normal due to timing problems? No ping, and just pulled a horse across the country with the truck in late April with no problems (except driving at 70 with OD off and 3500 pounds of extra weight does tend to run through fuel...) But the truck did jump up a few degrees on the temp. gauge in February. Replaced thermostat and no change.

Also, can anyone comment on the intricacies of replacing the 302 with a 351W from a '94 F-150? What problems will I run into besides having to swap the computer?

Thanks,

Mike