2001 5.4 180k miles 1st replacement set of plugs in engine now (installed 28lbs no anti sieze).

When I removed the original set of plugs, I had the advantage of being in the process of changing the intake manifold, lots of room.

I had a 3/8 beam torque wrench on each plug in the removal process just to see what it would take to get the plugs loose.

The wrench was breaking them loose at anout 30 lbs force

So Now I just want to remove one and check it for fouling.

It is taking way more than the original required amount of torque.

My fear is I'm on the verge of stripping threads, I'm soaking the plug in PB blaster now.

How long should this soak?

This is an 01 5.4 is stripping a problem?

Do aftermarket aluminum heads ( Trickflow, Edelbrock, Dart ) suffer this caution as well, or is this just an OEM thing?

Thanks !!

 

After markets aren't the same, = more threads.

No need to soak it, just pull it, you'll be okay. A Cordless impact would be best, depending on which cylinder your referring to, -this equalizes pressure unloading torque. Just make sure, whatever you use, KEEP CENTERED. Make sure your straight up and down with the plug when removing.

 

Thanks Jbrew, it is the no 7 plug from the other post of mine. No impact other than one that's to big.

I dont need a swivel, and I think with two hands I can keep the extension inline with the angle of the plug.

The engine is on the cool side of lukewarm not warm or cold.

Thanks for the help.

 

That's great. Yea, don't forget to blow out that plug chamber first lol. - Before removing the plug. Use a rag to assist in catching most of that PBlaster matter (and friends) that's going to jump out at you. You don't want that crap on top of the piston, if you can help it.

Hey , your running Motorcraft plugs correct?

 

replacing a SP 479 with the same

not sure the repeating code has anything to do with the plug

this plug looks fine to me with 15,000 miles usage except for the PB blaster I put on it.