Lead Frame Replacement & Lessons Learned
I replaced the lead frame in my truck yesterday. In the process, I discovered a few things that were not clear in FordTechMakuloco's video.
(1) Removing the bulkhead sleeve is required prior to removing the valve body and lead frame. It is shown in the video but not specifically called out.
(2) The exhaust cross over pipe (2016 5.0L) makes it challenging to remove, reinstall, and torque the three bolts at the rear on the lead frame.
(3) The thermal control valve is a completely different design without a spring. It is metal.
(4) My lead frame had the foam insert installed at the factory. It is a late build 2016. Also, my truck had three vice four oil passage tubes. This is shown in one of FordTechMakuloco's attachments.
(5) Removal of the bulkhead sleeve required removal of the rear and center mounting bolts for the cat heat shield. At that point, I was able to push it to the side and gain access to the sleeve for removal and reinstallation.
A couple of other items:
(1) Replaced the factory pan with the Dorman model with drain plug
(2) Collected 8.5 quarts on the removal, but installed 10 quarts after installation. I was able to add 8 quarts before starting the engine the first time. It is still about a pint low (cold) but need to check it hot and top off.
(3) All codes were cleared (P0715, P07117, P0720) and shifting is better.
(4) The lead frame failed at 107,000 miles
(1) Removing the bulkhead sleeve is required prior to removing the valve body and lead frame. It is shown in the video but not specifically called out.
(2) The exhaust cross over pipe (2016 5.0L) makes it challenging to remove, reinstall, and torque the three bolts at the rear on the lead frame.
(3) The thermal control valve is a completely different design without a spring. It is metal.
(4) My lead frame had the foam insert installed at the factory. It is a late build 2016. Also, my truck had three vice four oil passage tubes. This is shown in one of FordTechMakuloco's attachments.
(5) Removal of the bulkhead sleeve required removal of the rear and center mounting bolts for the cat heat shield. At that point, I was able to push it to the side and gain access to the sleeve for removal and reinstallation.
A couple of other items:
(1) Replaced the factory pan with the Dorman model with drain plug
(2) Collected 8.5 quarts on the removal, but installed 10 quarts after installation. I was able to add 8 quarts before starting the engine the first time. It is still about a pint low (cold) but need to check it hot and top off.
(3) All codes were cleared (P0715, P07117, P0720) and shifting is better.
(4) The lead frame failed at 107,000 miles
Last edited by GMC to Ford; Jun 15, 2025 at 12:38 PM.





