I just bought a 01 F150 Supercrew Lariat with the 5.4 and is 4x4. Truck has 202,000 miles and just and drives great. Should i be worried about this problem? I would think after all those miles that it is probably ok? Should i just recheck the plugs for added insurance? Any info would be appreciated. I have read lots of storys about it and do know that they built millions of these motors and the ones that have problems are normally the ones on the forums expressing it. You typically dont see anyone not having problems post. Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks Chad

 

It is of course something to be worried about, but as long as they are torqued down correctly they have a much less likely chance of happening. How long ago were your plugs changed? Everyone recommends 28 ft/# of torque now.

I just did my plugs and had 2 that were loose at 94k miles. Not completely loose and rattling, but they were not torqued anymore. With light pressure from one hand they came loose. So I was VERY glad I got to the plugs when I did.

Not everyone will have an issue, but it is a very common problem. I personally know 2 people that it has happened to. My grandfather and a girl at my work. If its time for you to do plugs or hell, even if its only 50k on the plugs they should be checked. I will be re-doing my plugs every 50k now.

 

ya i just litterally bought it the other night. The guy said they were just recently replaced... I think i am going to get a torque wrench and go over them one time

 

I would for piece of mind. But I would also make sure they are a good plug as well. These motors are pretty picky on the plugs they use. Pull one or a couple to check their color and for any fouling or oddities. If you are going to be in there, (pretty intensive job) I would just put all new motorcraft plugs in and re-grease (dielectric) the cop boots/ replace any boots that are swollen or cracked. Its not a super difficult job, its just very time consuming. There are a couple that you will wonder how in the hell you are ever going to get to it. But you will eventually overcome the plug

 

That's what I would do. Most shops (if it was done at a shop) still use what the book says, around 14lbs? with antiseize. 28ft/lbs with no antiseize is what is recommended by blownoutsparkplug.com and most of the people around here run that with no issues. It's one of those things, regardless how well the truck is running (which is great considering the miles). Make sure it has good oil and a good filter, fuel filter changed and coolant looks good. Then let it go another 200k.