Beating a dead horse --- spark plug problems
12-08-2012, 08:53 AM
#1
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Beating a dead horse --- spark plug problems
I'm well aware this subject has been covered all over various websites, but I'm asking it again. Are the spark plugs in my 2007 F-150 with the 4.6L engine the 2-piece design that are prone to breakage when removed? The problem is, I've read so much conflicting information my brain is hurting. Some say no, it's only an issue in the 5.4L engine. Some say yes, but only in the 4.6L with the 3-valve arrangement and not a problem with the 2-valve. Some say all the '07 4.6L are 3-valve. Jeez, does anyone have a clear and correct answer? My '07 has been an outstanding truck in every way, almost zero problems and currently around 144,000 miles. Looking at having the plugs replaced, and yes I know that's a long time to run a set, but it's still almost as smooth as it was when new.
So the specifc questions are:
1) Are there both 2-valve and 3-valve versions of the '07 F-150 4.6L? If so, how do I tell which one I have?
2) If the above is true, was the 2-piece spark plug that is prone to breakage when removed used only on the 3-valve version and not the 2-valve?
3) Was the breakage-prone plug design used on ALL the '07 4.6L engines?
If it helps, as far as I know I have a Windsor-made engine, the fittings on it are metric. Windshield decal that came on it lists the Dearborn assembly plant. I can send the VIN if you need it and e-mail me.
Thanks for your time and putting up with reading another spark plug post.
So the specifc questions are:
1) Are there both 2-valve and 3-valve versions of the '07 F-150 4.6L? If so, how do I tell which one I have?
2) If the above is true, was the 2-piece spark plug that is prone to breakage when removed used only on the 3-valve version and not the 2-valve?
3) Was the breakage-prone plug design used on ALL the '07 4.6L engines?
If it helps, as far as I know I have a Windsor-made engine, the fittings on it are metric. Windshield decal that came on it lists the Dearborn assembly plant. I can send the VIN if you need it and e-mail me.
Thanks for your time and putting up with reading another spark plug post.
12-08-2012, 09:00 AM
#2
They DID NOT put the 3 valve motor in the F150 until 2009:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Mo...engine#3-valve
1. Put your vin in your browser with this site to view your window sticker and it will tell you the motor:
services.forddirect.fordvehicles.com/inventory/WindowSticker.pdf?vin=[your VIN here]
2. The 2 valve still has the risk of blowing the spark plug out if not torqued to 28 ft/lbs. The 3V likes to stick and keep them in. Totally different designs on the head are the reason for this.
3. No breakage is not common on the 4.6L as most are 2 valves.
Use this method for changing your plugs:
https://www.f150forum.com/f72/97-03-...-change-93389/
Any more questions let us know.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Mo...engine#3-valve
1. Put your vin in your browser with this site to view your window sticker and it will tell you the motor:
services.forddirect.fordvehicles.com/inventory/WindowSticker.pdf?vin=[your VIN here]
2. The 2 valve still has the risk of blowing the spark plug out if not torqued to 28 ft/lbs. The 3V likes to stick and keep them in. Totally different designs on the head are the reason for this.
3. No breakage is not common on the 4.6L as most are 2 valves.
Use this method for changing your plugs:
https://www.f150forum.com/f72/97-03-...-change-93389/
Any more questions let us know.
12-08-2012, 09:05 AM
#3
Senior Member
1) Are there both 2-valve and 3-valve versions of the '07 F-150 4.6L? If so, how do I tell which one I have? No, you have a 2v
2) If the above is true, was the 2-piece spark plug that is prone to breakage when removed used only on the 3-valve version and not the 2-valve? 4.6's don't have 2 piece spark plugs
3) Was the breakage-prone plug design used on ALL the '07 4.6L engines?
None of them, you're safe
2) If the above is true, was the 2-piece spark plug that is prone to breakage when removed used only on the 3-valve version and not the 2-valve? 4.6's don't have 2 piece spark plugs
3) Was the breakage-prone plug design used on ALL the '07 4.6L engines?
None of them, you're safe
12-08-2012, 01:39 PM
#4
Senior Member
Shackel, regardless of what you have, try this: A week or so before you decide to take on the task, run your gas tank down to about half, then add a full bottle of Seafoam to the tank. Run the rest of that tank out before adding more gas so you don't dilute the Seafoam. Doing this will remove the carbon inside the motor. Also, a couple days before you take on the task, pull just your coilpaks and spray a good shot of a good penetrating oil down into each plug (plug still in of course). That'll help losen things up from the top, repeat the day of the task. Then when it's time to swap the plugs, hopefully life will be easier. Be sure to get the right extended deepwell socket too. The way I understand it is the 04-08's were the worst for plug issues.
12-08-2012, 01:43 PM
#5
^ The 04-08 4.6L's don't have plug issues. No need to spray anything in the wells days before. If the OP wants to run a real fuel system cleaner and one that works on carbon too (Seafoam's pale oil and naptha doesn't), a PEA based clean like Techron is the best route. Spent several years with the SAE testing additives.
https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q...KNpBUM4vTSjGRQ
https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q...KNpBUM4vTSjGRQ
