I recently bought a 97 f-150 with a 5.4 privately. It came with a new set of NGK TR55GP plugs that the guy hadn't got around to installing. I talked to a mechanic and he said they were garbage and I would be wasting my time installing them. Has anyone had problems with them? Any suggestions on what I should install? The truck has 133,000 kms and I believe the plugs have not been changed before.

 

I've installed those plugs in two vehicles. My V6 Lincoln LS ran ok with them, but my Marauder misfired with them. After about 1,000 miles, I chucked them in the trash and replaced them with Autolite XP plugs. Both ran great until I sold them.

In other words, I'd toss them in the garbage. Just me though.

 

Install exact OEM replacement Motorcrafts. Do not use antiseize and torque them to 28 ft/lb.

 

Thanks EsJayEs, that is exactly what the mechanic said that they would last 1000 miles and then start misfiring.

 

Horror stories about changing plucgs on a 2003 5.4 Triton......

 

What are the general fee
lings about the 5.4? I don't know but I've got a '95 in beatiful condition sitting in my yar with a 300-6

 

There are two 5.4l V8s.

The 2v which is my "feeling" is one of Ford's better engines. I've seen a lot go 300-400k without engine troubles (does not include accessories, water pump, alternator, sensors, lack of maintenance etc).

The latter 3v which is my "feeling" is one of Ford's not so better engines. Due to cam phasers, inadequate oil pump, and a few other disparities make that engine not so hot of a choice. Do some reading up on the 3v on here, and you'll see the "feelings" about what people think of it in it's stock form.

 

The 2003 is a 2V, no horror stories. It's the 2004-2008 3V that has that issue.

 

I’m more concerned as to why you bumped a 12+ year old thread with such ramblings…