drdoncut

Upon startup the engine makes a clicking noise, which lasts for about two seconds. Dealership has indicate that the problem is a solenoid related to the variable camshaft timing. They have given me two choices. One--total engine replacement $7,770.00 or solenoid replacement @ $835.00. Of that, labor costs is $750.00. That sounds very high. First of all, I'm not sure they have pinpointed the problem correctly. But the check engine light came on and that is why it was in the dealership.
After their assessment they indicated the cost is on me because of sludge build up. I've been Amsoil 0W-20 with oil/filter changes at about 10,000 mile internals. So, without sludge removal, and their replacement, i'm not making progress. Guess I'll need some sludge removal before proceeding. I'm looking into Auto-Rx for sludge removal. Meantime, is there any evidence that this is a Ford problem? Is there a less costly method of fixing the problem?
DC in TX

nrivera04

Posting on the correct forum would likely net you more responses... This in the 04-08 F150 board.

Do the 2011's evem have the 5.4 in them? I assume it was only the 09-10's in that generation with that motor.

First Place Oils

Sorry to hear that your engine has an issue.

First of all, I can not believe you are using AMSOIL and they tell you there is sludge.
I've been using 0w20 AMSOIL signature series in my 2005 Mustang GT changing it YEARLY it has 200,000 miles on it and still looks clean inside.
Which 0/20 are you using? OE,XL or Signature?

I would suggest trying this product first since it's under $10

http://www.amsoil.com/shop/by-produc...953&zo=1667299


I used it on a co-workers 2005 Ford Escape 3.0 v6
it had 105,000 miles of jiffy lube




after 15 min of if idle time with it in the oil it ended up like this.