we are in the market for an 02-04 F150 super crew. In my pre-buy research it's scaring the hell out of me with the high cost design issues.

Driving an 02 SC 5.4L yesterday, we were scared off by the ticking after reading about the blown plug issue. The truck had 115k miles and as far as I know the plugs were original according to service records.

test drove an '03 SC 4.6L today with 67K miles. Definitely peppier than the 5.4 w/ higher mileage. It was a little over packaged for my needs w/leather, etc ......stock towing package.

step up to my next test drive this coming monday. another O3' SC 4.6L with standard 4 pin towing (I have a 16" 2280# fiberglass trailer with brakes - 7pin.)

this truck has 76K miles. Manuf date is 5/03, so I don't know if it has the new plug/head design or not. I've read where ones after 11/02 build date may have them. Or it was an " '11/03" build date?

Have to tell you I'm confused as hell over finding one within a good window of opportunity as far as build date!

My question to f150 owners....

which is worse blown plugs or seized plugs?

would that 02 with 115k miles and a noticable tick be the spark plugs warning it was going to blow, or could it be something else?

i'm a chick so go easy on the jargon if you can. All I know about ford trucks is what I've read online the past 3 days since first seeing a SC and loving the seat comfort and space, and the functionality for us with the short bed.

Right now I'm driving a 3rd gen 4runner that is underpowered for even the 2280# tow.

appreciate everyones input good or bad. BTW what we buy will be a keeper for several hundred K miles, hopefully, so picking the right one is crucial.

 

4.6L does not have a spark plug issue

 

sweet! i heard some did, some didn't on the 4.6. I know the 4.6 that i drove today didn't tick.

would the 4.6 be good enough to pull an under 3k# trailer? I don't want to be underpowered, but I like the gas savings also over the 5.4.

thank you!

 

I wish everyone could be as lucky as I am with mine (knock on wood). I strongly recommend these trucks, but some things are to be looked at. The ticking is common from what I've seen in these types of engines. Could be nothing but a cold start, mine does tick sometimes. The whole plug issue is hit or miss. If you read a few threads on the topic, you'll see what to look for. I'd opt for something under 100k as the plugs are probably original, then have someone change them. The coils may have to be replaced at a later date, but in doing a plug change with a touch of antiseize on the threads (my recomondation), put some dielectric grease in the coil/plug boot. I think the plug issue is one of personal fault for those who change them improperly or too late, in most cases.

What I've had issues with is undercarriage stuff, tie rods and ball joints especially. These NEED TO BE CHECKED ON A REGULAR BASIS!!! Have them checked before buying as they are kinda cheap, but labor is alot. Agood safety check will verify these, as well as a good operating emerg. brake. I find there are a lot of very small, less important stuff that's mostly cosmetic so you should be happy with any of these trucks. I also find these girls give alot of warning with noises before breaking down, pay attention when she's speaking!

 

4.6L should do the job You are looking to buy an 02,03 ford They are a lot lighter than the newer 04 If i were you i would buy the 4.6 with the low miles

 

thank you so much guys. blue2000, thank you for the undercarriage tips. We did notice on both trucks that they had alot of rust underneath them. and mud. To top off my concerns, our area was flooded several X the past few months, so I'm running car faxes and having our son fully inspect them. I'm suprised to see so much rust on them w/living down here.

I assume you meant use anti-sieze if I go with an 04?

looks like the 03's 4.6L would be a good choice then. The one we drove today ran strong, but the brakes were kind of spongy. I assume 60K+ miles a brake job would be due?

you're correct Russ - the cosmetics are the least of my concerns, other than overal opinion of care by the previous owner. a sound truck with plenty of life left in it is what we need.

thanks again.

 

Alot say "no dice" on the 97-03 using antiseize, I use enough to lightly coat. On the newer 04 3valves, it seems more necessary. I have a 5.4, but the 4.6 will do fine for what yall need. Good luck and have it oil sprayed underneath to keep rust at bay and to mask it a bit. Oh ya, brakes should be looked at and replaced with a good semi-metallic for a bit better stopping and alot less dust!

 

thank you blue2000. I feel much better informed after your replies and not so scared to buy one. Years ago we had an 83 F100 that we called our goat. We loved it and I really like full size trucks for my bad back. The yota just isn't cutting it in that dept. They make a find dependable vehicle, but they are sorely lacking in comfort.

the Screw is a perfect fit for our needs. And our 2 boxers will fit just fine in the rear seats

 

dont worry about it. ive got 2 4.6s f150 and crown vic. they both have well over 100k and they run great not one major problem.just like any other vehicle its all how previous owner took care of it. i agree with blue2000 when she starts any kind of noise ertc.. inspect right away.only repairs ive made

starter
tranny extension housing seal 20$
power steering hose 20$
coil packs. stock ones had 132k so.. time anyway 100$
battery 70$

 

thank you keith. the 4.6 sounds pretty cheap to keep which is what we're looking for in addition to safety.

i really like the brakes on the f-150's after the 4runner which is notorious for terrible low pedal brakes.

 

ive had chevy,dodge and ford trucks. i gotta say the ford is the most reliable hands down. well at least in my experience.

 

If your worried about the rust I buy a product called POR15. At changes rust back into metal and stops it from coming back ever. It is truly an amazing product and best of all no prep is needed. Just clean the area up real well and paint this stuff on then let it dry. I use it on my 4 wheeler to stop frame rust and it has been fantastic. Rust on my toys really bothers me, so if it bothered you also its a good solution

 

Havent owned a Chevy, watching my dad curse and swear at his for years was enough for me. Dodge and Ford have sat in the driveway though and the Ford has been more reliable for me so far, and the quality of materials used in the Ford is so much better than anything Dodge slaps together

 

i had a dakota it was alright. never left me stuck anywhere. it just started to nickle and dime mme to death. it couldnt get out of its own way either lol.

 

Honestly, Ford has always been my brand, but if I had known about the issues with F150's, I would have stayed clear of them and opted for a Chevy or GMC. However, since I've bought, I've been in love with it.