Sorry folks!

I realize this is an old and nagging issue but I need your help please!

I own a used '99 F150 with the 5.4L V8 - 41,000 miles.

I understand that there were (and still are) issues with this engine in regard to "piston slap".

I recently downloaded a sound clip of a 5.4L making the piston slap noise. Mine makes that sound every time I start it when the engine is cold.

It's driving me nuts! I love the truck but I'm very nervous about the engine not being reliable.

At some point I heard that there may have been a FORD recall to fix this problem but I can't find any detailed information about it.

If there was a recall, how can I find out if my truck was fixed or not? I don't have any maintenance records from the previous owner... Will FORD still fix my truck if it is found to have the problem? Could there be another known problem that would make the same noise?

What should I do?

Thanks!

 

There has been no recalls because safety isn't an issue with the piston slap problem. There has been a TSB (technical service bulletin) for it, which states that if the customer is concerned, the dealer is to replace with a FQR (Ford Quality Replacement) engine. They also report that some of the FQR engines are still diagnosed with the piston problem. It's really up to the customer for whether or not they want to take the chance with the FQR engine. The dealers computer should have a record of your 5.4 has been changed over, and should replace it if it is diagnosed with the piston slap.

 

Thanks for the information... I'll check with the dealer I bought it from and see what past maintenance has been done on it.