Say it isn't so!! 50K out of Autolite Platinums???
07-05-2016, 08:51 PM
#1
Say it isn't so!! 50K out of Autolite Platinums???
Well my beloved 2007 Expedition that I bought 50K miles ago has developed a miss/stumble upon throttle tip-in in the upper mph range. First thing that came to mind is spark plugs.
I just had the rear-diff, transfer case and transmission fluid and filter changed from the best shop around, Certified Transmission. They also did a software update on the transmission and it has never ran better. That was about 3K ago. When I bought the Expedition (it also has the 5.4 with a build date of 6/06) I was informed the plugs had just been changed. So today while doing my 145K oil change, I decided to pull a plug. Came out nice and easy, good. Then as I took it out of the plug socket, I saw it. Autolite Platinum. I was kind of shocked that it has ran so good the last 50K, very pleased that I took the plug out so easy, and even happier knowing a full plug change should be easy. Not to mention that I was not lied to by the Chevy dealer I bought it from.
So I just ordered a set of 8 SP515's and a set of BWD SPB150 boots and springs. I have a Lisle on hand just in case. I am still amazed at how well the Autolites did after hearing so many negative reviews in the 5.4 3V.
Sidenote, tons of engine bay room in the Expedition compared to our F150's.
I just had the rear-diff, transfer case and transmission fluid and filter changed from the best shop around, Certified Transmission. They also did a software update on the transmission and it has never ran better. That was about 3K ago. When I bought the Expedition (it also has the 5.4 with a build date of 6/06) I was informed the plugs had just been changed. So today while doing my 145K oil change, I decided to pull a plug. Came out nice and easy, good. Then as I took it out of the plug socket, I saw it. Autolite Platinum. I was kind of shocked that it has ran so good the last 50K, very pleased that I took the plug out so easy, and even happier knowing a full plug change should be easy. Not to mention that I was not lied to by the Chevy dealer I bought it from.
So I just ordered a set of 8 SP515's and a set of BWD SPB150 boots and springs. I have a Lisle on hand just in case. I am still amazed at how well the Autolites did after hearing so many negative reviews in the 5.4 3V.
Sidenote, tons of engine bay room in the Expedition compared to our F150's.
07-05-2016, 09:39 PM
#2
Senior Member
You are so right about the room in the engine bay difference, I also have a 2010 Expedition and yesterday, I was checking its fluids and could not believe how much more room it has compared to my 2004. Both have the 5.4L 3V as well.
07-05-2016, 09:52 PM
#3
Yep, no computer removal. Just need to take intake tube off really. So easy to access all 8 plugs. I just converted the rear air to coil over struts along with new coil overs on the front, all from Strutmasters. New rotors and pads from Powerstop, all new ball joints, tie rods, sway bar links and bushings. Thing rides like a dream now.
07-06-2016, 12:46 AM
#4
I have a set of the autolites in my 05 mustang with the 4.6 3v and I have about 15k on them. I usually pull them every 3 oil changes and inspect them. So far no issues. The updates ones they sell had a nice rebate on them earlier this year which made me go that route.