kdcntn

I removed the fuel rail because I was doing all of the plugs. Some people say you can use the same O rings, but I bought new ones. Very easy work.

Big_Bird

There was a link somewhere that escapes me now where they guy showed his socket + extensions + ujoints configurations. Two ujoints and a few long extensions make it easier. I went out and bought an extensions kit before I did the job a while back.

That said, I recall one coil bolt (might have been #7) that was particularly troublesome. I was so super focused on sockets that I was going to die on that hill, then at the last minute realized I could get to that coil bolt easily enough with an open end wrench. The issue for that one was socket clearance near the fuel rail. Once the coil was off, accessing that plug was no problem.

I got it done and did not loosen the fuel rail.

Bangarang

"(ie 97-98 5.4L and 97-99 4.6’s motors use a wire system instead of COPs)"

wait...
the 1997 5.4 V8 doesn't have coil packs?

Cmanjr

97 5.4L uses COPs. What you quoted is incorrect.

It should say the 97/98 4.6s use plug wires going to a main coilpack, as the 4.6 is the only motor to use these. The 5.4 was always run with COPs.

Drundel

I registered (well again, I was on a LONG time ago) just to say thanks.

My F-150 was running rough after Harvey even though it never had water more than two inches high on the tires, so after a quick code read (mis-fire in #1 and #2), I decided to start cheap and replace the plugs, then coils if the plugs alone didn't fix it.

After pulling the first coil, it was an easy call to replace it. Replaced plug #2 and the coil looked fine, put them all back together with a lot of di grease, and also noticed the clips on the coil and the fuel injector were pretty loose, had to press them into locking position and now all is good.

I cranked it up, let it idle and no more check engine light and it wasn't rough anymore. I'll take it for a drive tomorrow afternoon.

Plugs #1 and #2 were pretty dang easy, but I can see 3, 4, 7, and 8 being a female dog.

mbb

4 is easy with right extensions and ujoint.

Some on bank 2 require pulling fuel rail, its a pain. 8 be the worstest

Cmanjr

7 and 8 are no doubt the hardest to deal with. Especially if you have bigger hands. You go into dealing with those knowing you're gonna come back out with a bunch of cuts and scrapes and gouges in your hands. It's hard to avoid doing.

But on the bright side at least we don't have to deal with them very often at all.

mjille

Nice write up!

me1234

Just did the plugs on my 2001 5.4L. So far so good. This post was extremely helpful, as was the buddy of mine who helped with the job.

We were able to change all the plugs by removing the pcv, power steering pump reservoir bracket, and one connection for an injector or the driver's side, although I'm sure the job would've been immensely easier had we taken the fuel rail off. My buddy brought a ****load of different length extensions and ones with the semi-rounded ends that allow the extension to pivot. Be warned the clips are old and fragile that attach to the COP. Some of mine are zip tied on now. I went with Motorcraft plugs, 32 ft.-lbs., no anti-seize.