Hey all

With the drop in trade in values, I have decided to keep my truck. So I have an 04 5.4 SCAB with about 55K on it. I am currently in Iraq and was thinking about having the plugs done now, just incase there is a problem, I wont be without a truck...

So my friends have a repair shop, and they both own an older 5.4 that they said gave them no problem as far as the plug change went. They said they would do mine for me. Whats your suggestions. Dealer or my friends place?

They havent heard to much about the plugs breaking, but I was going to give them all the info on how you all recommebnd to do it,. like soaking the plugs, etc.

What what do you think. GEt robbed by the dealer or try my friend shop?

And what about the replacement plugs. Some guys went with Ford Brand. What are your recommendation.. Ford or aftermarket plugs. If so what brand / model?

 

Only go with Motorcraft plugs for these engines. If your friend is a mechanic then it should be totally fine for him to change them. Im a total self learner with no background in mechanics and if I can do it, then he can do it just fine.

 

Thanks. Yeah, they are Ford fans. Its a Mom & Pop type place so they didnt hear much about the plug failure that the 5.4's have been having. He has a 98 5.4 that he did himself.

So what plugs should I use. I think I saw someones post about "new" style replacement plugs that were supposed to "fix" or eliminate the problems our motors have.

Besides, I am worried about doing it. I doubt I'll keep the truck past 100k, unless its running like a top.

 

If you are not going to keep the truck, then why change the plugs? They are good to 100,000 and beyond. The only reason to change them now that I can see is if you ARE going to keep it and you want to make sure they come out. I had mine replaced at 65,000 with no problem and went back with the Motorcraft.

 

If your friends have no experience with plug removal in 5.4 3V engines and do not have the TSB, required materials, and the extractor tools just in case, you may want to look elsewhere.