I can't seem to get the socket to grip the plug on the #4 cylinder. I've tried 3 differnet length sockets. Every time I put a sockets down the shaft all it does is turn in place, I even use a socket supposely made for Ford trucks, it's about 5 inches in length. I do realize the the plugs are set vertically. I used each socket to grip the other plugs with out a problem, but the #4 just won't work. Is there a chance that the plug wasn't set properly when first manufactured? I even put the a socket, without an extension down the shaft, but it still would not grip the plug, Any help would be greaty appreciated. Thanks.

 

Find someway to look into the hole, they are notorious for having debris in the holes. If you have a good flex mirror or even a makeup mirror would work, just find a way to look down in there.

 

You have something wrapped around the plug or there is debris in the hole . Maybe the last person to change/install the plugs left the rubber collar from the plug socket on the plug.

FYI the plugs are angled towards the rear on that side of the engine. They are not straight up and down.

Regards

Jean Marc Chartier

 

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I had the same problem & it turned out to be a build up of melted crap around the bottom of the plug thread. Blowing it out didn't do anything. I took a medium size flat head screwdriver & very gently walked it around the edge of the plug/wall appling a light downward pressure. This busted up the melted goo/crap the air hose wouldn't get out. Once this was done I re-applied the air hose, blew out the debris, dropped in the socket & lcok up was made.

 

Thanks all for the help, I'll let you know how it works out.

 

MSH,
why do you say: I just hope you can keep the plugs in that 5.4 once you get them all out and re-installed? - Is there something I should know about new plugs in a 5.4L

 

They have a habit of loosening and blowing out. The best way to prevent this is NOT use antiseize compound and tighten them to specs with a torque wrench.

 

Check the coil you pulled out of that hole and see if the boot is shorter than the rest. I've had the end of the coil boot stay on the plug several times, usually on #4, go figure. You can usually fish it out with a long pick. Good luck