So I've been reading a lot here and elsewhere about the 5.4L Triton; what years it was used in the F150, different variations of it, and it's problems. Below is what I've found so far. I would like to learn some more specifics which I'll outline at the bottom. This is my current understanding:

5.4L 2 Valve:

• Used in 1997–2004 F150s (in 2004,only in the heritage model)
• 4.6, 5.4, 6.8L for 97-2008 Ford vehicles, stripped spark plug threads/spark plugs blowout

5.4L 3 Valve (start of VCT)

• Used in 2004-2008 F150's (in 2004 it was in NON-heritage models only)
• This one has Cam phaser issues (ticking which may turn into "diesel sound". Some ticking is okay/common without problems.
  • Might also be due to low oil pressure due to bad seals?
• How to distinguish between cam phaser clicking issue or injector clicking issue: http://www.flatratetech.com/index.php?categoryid=4 Episode 22
• For 5.4L & 6.8L BUILT before 10/9/07 & 4.6L BUILT before 11/30/07 (2004-2008 models), have issues where factory plugs break into two pieces when you try to remove, leaves broken plug in head.

**Dates were found via Wikipedia not the best source but this is where I found it (here is an archived post in case the wiki is ever changed)

Specifics I'd still like to learn:

1. Any years where the spark plug issues (for either/both 2V and 3V) were resolved or at least not as prevalent? (judging by the dates I found, no)
2. Does the Cam Phaser issue really damage anything or is just the sound that's irritating?
3. Any years where the Cam Phaser issue was fixed or at least was not as prevalent?
4. Any OTHER common issues that I should be aware of with the 5.4L ?

I've heard that these issues aside, the motor is great and will run a long time. I'd love the 5.0L but those trucks are typically newer and out of my price range usually.


EDIT: found this very helpful video explaining the various issues. Doesn't answer my specifics, but showed me some other issues I was unaware of

 

The spark plug problem was more about the plugs than the heads. If the plugs have been changed, the problem has been solved. If they haven't, then either get the Lisle Tool and change them yourself, or get a shop to do them for you, and it will run +- $1000. Either way, new plugs mean no more problem.

As for the phasers....Yes....it can and will damage things. The ticking means it's ready for a timing job.....phasers, guides,timing chain, ect. Mine had it done just before I bought it (at the Ford dealership) at 98K on the clock. I have put 40K (miles....'Merica) on since, and she purrs like a kitten.

Other than that, my 07 Screw has been great to me. She still shines, starts every time, and seems to be happy pulling whatever I hook up to her. She has 11 Minnesota Winters under her belt, and has started on the coldest and hottest days of the year with no drama.

 

How often does the timing job have to be done? Every 100k Miles? Seems like a PITA

 

for 97-04 if you torque the plugs to 28 ft lbs you shouldnt have any blowout problems; helicoils are typically used to fix a blowout though. the manuals and specs at time of manufacture were not high enough, something in the teens i believe. i'd check out the specific sections for each generation to get some other good details but if you get the 2v 5.4 and end up having to replace parts there are some parts that are very picky as to what you replace with, motorcraft is usually your best bet especially when it comes to plugs, cops etc

 

If your truly after good insight, you should be posting in the nuts and bolts forums on this site vs GD (no offense). Generation x generation as they all differ in their own way. Plug problems vary but easily overcome. This doesn't so much as hinder the quality and value you get from Ford truck. Keep an open mind long enough and you'll get there.

 

Where is this nuts and bolts forum? I didn't see anything like that.

Regarding the cam phasers, timing chains, and VVT solenoids, does this stuff need to be replaced often? (like every 50k-100k miles?) I'm looking at an 06 with all of this replaced, and a new transmission. Not sure if I want to jump into it bc I don't want to have to replace that crap every 50k miles.

And I've read about a hanger bearing for the driveshaft that goes bad that requires the whole driveshaft to be replaced?

What is it about the 4 speed transmissions that make them so bad?

 

They isn't anything that makes them bad.......but drive a 4-speed then 6-speed back to back same engine and you feel the difference. The 6-speed gives you a lower 1st gear and higher 6th gear, with smaller steps between gears. Better acceleration and better fuel mileage.

 

We have a 2007 F-150 4x4 with 5.4 and about 160,000 miles. The engine still starts properly without any unusual noises and also Idles fine without noise. It has always had Motorcraft oil and filter at less than 4,000 mile intervals Hoping to get 200,000 miles out of it without timing issues and it runs/sounds like it may very well do it. The original plugs were changed at about 90,000 miles without an issue (good, independent shop). Proper maintenance on these engines makes a difference. Outside of ball joints and brakes - both once, this truck has been running a long time without any issues. Just regular maintenance.