I know that by now this is an old issue, but I tried to be pro-active and change my plugs 25 000 miles before recommended to avoid any problems...I only avoided half the problem - 4 plugs broken in cylinders. Got the same runaround from Ford canada - apparently the plugs are NOT a design flaw, but anyone who is not a mechanic at a dealer is the problem. My mechanic actually used the tool and procedure recommended from Ford, but at 45$ an hour instead of 95$ from the dealer. Has anyone of you had any success claiming the reimbursement of the cost of repairs to Ford ?

 

If I recall, that was a marketing slogan for the blue oval a number of years ago. Why change the plugs at all, my 2006 F150 with 110 k miles still rocks with the original plugs, so why. I suppose at some point it may be necessary. What are you other guys racking up for miles on original plugs?

 

I hear you on that one cabman...I have 83000 on my 04 5.4 and dont plan on changing the plugs til I notice issues. Especially after reading all the horror stories on here.

 

Check you engine code found on the driver's side engine bank engine code ending in BB have the new updated one piece plugs.

 

199k miles and I am changing my first set of plugs... thats when I was told by another f150 owner of this problem... I all ready had the snap on man drop off the "tool". I was going to tackle this on Sunday... Im fearing I will now be without a truck for a few days/weeks... sooo, whats the suggested plug to buy to keep the risk to a minimal?

 

Motorcraft SP-507 or SP-515, use antiseize as directed.

 

of course when I search autozone for this plug, it says its not for my engine... I have the 4.6L. I take it it will work without issue and that its the plug used for the 5.4L?

Ken

 

If you have a 4.6, you don't have the plug separating problem. Only problem you should have is getting to the plugs with the ratchet.

 

If you have a 4.6, this entire thread does not apply to you and you can give that tool back to the Snap-On man.

SP-493 plugs, do not use antiseize, torque to 28 ft/lb.

 

The TSB (09-7-6) clearly lists the 4.6 made before 11/30/07, so I am assuming that my 04 F150 and even though not listed my 04 Expidition would have this issue?

Thanks

 

Your F150 4.6 is a 2v engine and this does not apply. If you have 3v engine in the Expedition, then it would apply.

 

Thanks 2 followup questions:

So changing the plugs on the f150 will be easier?

How do I determine whats in the Expedition?

Thanks,

Ed

 

What are the spark plugs suppose to be torqued at on the 5.4 3v?

 

So apparently I missed something while I was possibly deployed. I have a 97k and never changed the stock plugs on my 07 with a 5.4. my truck runs fine and I've never had an issue. I was planning on replacing the plugs soon. Is it a total nightmare? I am a capable mechanic but I'm also a single dad and this is my only ride, should I just pay someone to deal with it.

 

Use the Advanced Search and do some reading of the success and failure stories. It is doable if you take your time and have the Lisle tool for any that break. If you take it to someone, usually, a dealer is best, but even at dealers, make sure they know what they are doing and that they have had previous success. Some jakelegs just assume they can do anything and really make a mess. We have many success stories of memebers doing it themselves.

If you hire it done it should run about $350 plus some if any break.