triton plug problems

[Mswilliams]

I just got 5.4's in a 1998 e-350 and i read all over about the plug problems now the van started missing i was wondering what are some of the differences in changing the plugs, coil packs, adding a insert or changing the head in vans vs trucks? I have read about most of the repairs in trucks but haven't seen anything about vans, I hope I can find out what i might have ahead of me.

 

[Brokenwrench]

I do know from experience that if you change plugs on one, the motor better be completely cold. Otherwise your chances of pulling the threads goes way up, and don`t over torque the plugs. Alot of the miss problems stem from moisture getting into the boot running from the coil pack to the plug. With a scan tool you should be able to pick up which cylinder is misfiring and deal with just that one. Unless you want to replace all the plugs, boots, and coil packs. I would think that depending on which cyl is troubled would depend on if it`s easier or harder to get to with the doghouse off. Good luck

 

[Anonymous-0]

Half the plugs in the pickup are back under the cowl. And the left side on my 4.6L aren't even visible without removing parts of the fuel injection system. Standard time in the Ford garage is 1.6 hours. Costly buying the plugs from them at $10 each, but so far none have come loose. The van with its doghouse opened up may actually give better access than having to lay over the radiator and the top of the engine and work by feel.

Gerald J.

 

[Bus Driver]

I am glad to get this information. I have a 5.4 F-150. No plug problems yet, but several other problems. The attitude of the dealer means that I will not not go back there.

 

[John T]

MS, Do a Google search for Ford Triton Spark Plug Problems and you get get an ear full of consumer complaints etc etc. I decided NOT to buy a V 10 for that very reason (unsure what models it affects or what year Ford fixed it???). They used aluminum heads and not enough threads to try n hold the plug in and many blew out the threads. They sell after market fixes consisting of an insert which seems to fix the problem. Despite the cost of do it yourself or a mom n pop mechanic of ever changing plugs, I think I would have FORD do it.

John T

 

[Bob]

Besides the plugs popping out from stripped threads, the coils commonly fail (coil on plug). Your miss MAY be due to a bad coil.

Some guys replace them in sets with an aftermarket coil, such as MSD, reputed to be better than OEM, and, I think, a little cheaper.

A quick check with a scan tool will show which cylinder(s) the 'puter is seeing misfire.

 

[dave guest]

Does this poppin g plug thing lhappen to 4.6??? Thanks