My 2002 4.6 is not getting oil to the top of the engine. So im looking to replace it. But i need to know what the difference is between a 2002 4.6 and other years. Will i have to stay with 2002 4.6 romeo or can i use other years and with what modifications

 

2001+ 4.6L 2valve. - Straight up, you may want/have to use your existing, -top of the intake up.

1999+ 5.4L 2 valve. With little modification.

1999+ 5.4L lightning. With a little more modification.

 

Definety dont want the 5.4 Im currently pulling the heads off my 99 expedition 5.4 and doing all the plugs just had my second one blow and its in the rear of the engine so im doing the rest at the same time

 

The 5.4L has the same heads as the 4.6L. You or SOMEONE stripped the 5fours plug chamber threads, -or just didn't torque them down properly. The 5.4L's are a better truck motor.

You NEVER have to pull the heads to repair the plug chamber threads. They're repaired (Time sert) in place and it's a quick procedure anyone can do at home. If you can follow direction, you'll never have to do it again.

 

Like i said I already did one but if youve ever looked at the way they tuck the engine in an expedition You cant work on the rear plug with the Time sert kit.

 

If i replaced the 4.6 with the 5.4 would i need to switch out the ECM?

 

no, just tune it.

 

Jbrew I dont believe its a matter of over tightning and stripping i believe its a lack of maintanence. The threds of the plug is iron alloy and the head is alluminum They expand and contract at different rates allowing the plugs to work there way lose. then the last threads can not hold the preasure and blow striping part of the threads. Then they bounce up and down until they damage the rest of the threads. Lets face it no one shuts down there engine the minute theres a strange noise and the plugs are not easy to reach so we have a tendency to not check them every ounce in a while.

 

The threads on Motorcraft plugs are nickel plated. They work loose because the factory torque spec is inadequate.

 

Good post. -I don't either Mike and lack of maintenance could have something to do with it. Since from the factory, plugs were loosening on their own anywhere from 46,000 miles plus. The longer you went without a plug change bettered your chances of a blow out. It all stemmed from improper torque in the first place. Over torquing would be difficult to do given plug location and angle. The heads can take 100' lbs without damaging the threads.

Your correct with some of your thoughts, -sort of. Not exactly, but close lol. Add in engine vibration to assist with plug loosening. Nobody should EVER have to check plug torque between changes.

You can Time sert #4 in vehicle. Yes , it's harder than the rest. You have to remove the harness cradle and maybe a HC line on some models. Then w/bungies, tie everything back tight and out of the way. Personally, I'd pull the motor before resorting to removing the heads. IMO, an in vehicle head job is a PITA.