1990sevenup

I have a 2004 Screw 4x4 with the 5.4. I have 79k miles on the truck. She started hesitating and missing the Monday before Thanksgiving. Took her to my local auto parts store and they hooked up their computer to it. My engine light was on and blinking while driving. Once they hooked up computer it gave the code that cylinder #5 was misfiring. I took it to my mechanic and they couldn't get it to hesitate/misfire. I told them it usually did it around 50 MPH. They said they took it for a ride and reached 60MPH and it wouldn't do it. I do know that I should replace the plugs, not sure if original owner replaced them. Just bought truck Nov 2013.
I have 2 questions.
1. My mechanic said it would cost a minimum of $450. If any of the plugs broke off expect a 1 hour labor charge for each one that breaks. Does $450 sound reasonable and since I only have 79k miles on it does anyone think some would break?

2. Should I replace the coil packs as well? If so what would be a decent brand to buy?

Thanks!

homer

You do know the plugs are common for busting on the 5.4 right (2004-2007 approx. F150's)? There is a procedure to try and prevent busting them and a tool (Lisle) to help remove them if they do. That's likely why the extra 1 hour delay. I couldn't say if $450 is reasonable but assuming that includes plugs I think it probably is right. Someone else can chime in on that. Here's the TSB: http://www.aa1car.com/library/ford_tsb_08-7-6.pdf

Hard to say on the Coil pack's (COP). Mine are original with 200,000km on mine. Given the km on your plugs, if they're original it might be that. Others can chime in but I'd change the plugs first and see if that solves it. The COP's are easy to replace after if it's still hesitating.

1990sevenup

Thanks! I do know that they are 2 piece plugs that will or could break. My mechanic has the tool already. He told me that Ford put out a 42 page "how to" manual to remove those plugs. SMH. I hope to get it in the shop soon. Problem is not having it for a couple of days. Mechanic said worst case is they may have truck for 3 days. I have a 90 Mustang 5.0 with 24k miles that DOES NOT get driven in the winter here in Maryland! Guess I would have to use step daughters car for a few days, Lol.

BassAckwards

The tool is $50 and worth it's weight in gold. Replace the plugs yourself and save some money. Replace the one coil if you feel inclined, I would, and use a motorcraft.

1990sevenup

So you recommend Motorcraft spark plugs? Which type, double platinum?
I have thought about doing it myself. I need to buy the tool or see if the hobby shop on base has it. I am just concerned of ruining the engine if I don't do this right.

techrep

iTrader: (1)

I would not replace the COP’s with only 80K on them...maybe the springs and boots though. unless one is causing a problem like #5...but, that could be the plug doing that.

1990sevenup

Thanks techrep. I just can't get over how much mechanic wants to do this repair. I would try it myself if it wasn't winter right now. Need to have this done very soon. It's hesitating more now

heloguy

Check the FPDM to see if it is corroded. It can cause surging when it is failing and it is an easier fix than the plugs.

techrep

iTrader: (1)

naw.. with the CEL blinking ... classic sign of a misfire condition

Walkerrun

I would recommend buying the tool on Amazon or see if you can borrow one from O'Reilly (I heard they loan it out). That is a reasonable price for the job because it takes a long time. I understand Ford charges $750 or more to do it! If you do it yourself, take the battery out and remove the PCM and PCM bracket to easily get to the back 2 on the passengers side. And definitely have a breaker bar available (I have a 2ft pipe that I slide on my wrench that acts as a breaker bar).

Go with MotorCraft plugs, as they are the best. The normal ones from AutoZone are great. I had this EXACT same problem and replaced my plugs and COPs. It did not solve my problem because I got a faulty MotorCraft plug out of the box, so just be aware that can happen.
As for COPs, I bought a set of 8 from Global Automotive on eBay for $50. They have worked good so far (though I replaced them 2 weeks ago). I would definitely recommend them!