thraxxx

Hey all,

I am new to the forums and looking for answers.

First off, I went to our local ford dealership today to look at trading in my old 1989 Sierra and 2001 Focus for a newer F150. The dealer just got a 2006 F150 Supercab back from a leased owner. They are asking 18,995 for the truck. Here are the specs

5.4L Triton Engine
4X4 Drive Train
Power Locks, Power windows, Power rear window, Keyless entry via keypad
Complete Towing Package
Modular Rust Protection device
18" Chrome Rims with brand new BFGoodrich rubber
Complete Chrome accent package for exterior

All in all the truck is in amazing shape and only has 38,000km's.

I am really psyched about this deal and want to jump on it but I mentioned the deal to my mechanic buddy and he said that the 5.4L Triton has an issue with sparkplugs breaking off in the heads and then some expensive headwork is needed to fix the problem. Now this truck is coming with the ExtraCare warranty which covers the heads but I am assumign that means I need to have the mech's at Ford do the tuneups and oilchanges and such.

Seriously though...this truck is nice..I want it but I seriously don't want a headache from buying this truck. The sierra was already enough of a headache for me. Looking for a vehicle that will be decent for 5 years and seriously hoping that this F150 will do the job. Let me know what you guys think.

Thanks

Sorry for the long post

Lenn

Yes they do have the issue but if you search here you will find that it is not something that EVERYBODY has. I am about to replace mine with 44k just to be on the safe side. Extended warranties cover heads but if the reason for the headwork is due to preventative maintenance, I doubt they will cover it and a dealership will probably try to snake out of fault.

Best bet is to agree to buy the truck under the prerequisite that they replace the plugs prior to you signing the papers. You may have to agree to pay for the plugs themselves but with this being such an issue that is somewhat recognized, it should not be a problem- especially if it is from a reputable dealer. I didn't know about the problem before hand, otherwise I would have done the same thing.

Lenn

Other than this issue, wich is reletively small as well as hit or miss- these trucks are proving to be great. I have been on here for about 4-5 months and mainly I just read. No real problems to speak of. Just be sure that you take care of her and she will take care of you.

wxmcpo

Yeah there is the sparkplug issue, but as Lenn said, it doesn't hit everyone of us. I have almost 36,500 miles on my truck and am thinking about changing my plugs just to get it out of the way. There is also a TSB and special tool that can be used to remove the plugs should they actually break off, it doesn't always involve pulling the heads.

I'm with Lenn though and I'd tell the dealership deal if they replace the plugs and you buy the plugs you want in it.