Fordfusion5531

Hey guys,


I have a 2004 new body style Screw Lariat 4x4. Truck is currently at 283,000 miles with its second motor. Motor currently has almost 50,000 on it. Anyone have any advice for me to keep this truck running for 10 more years? I change the oil with 5w-20 myself every 4k-5k miles. Just did a coolant flush. And now, I did notice the truck is having trouble starting. We are having 1 degree weather here in Michigan. I don't know if that's why, but I cranked it once and it didn't start so then I did it again and it cranked but it blew out blue smoke and sounded like a blew it. Also, the truck sat for about 2 days in 1 degree weather. Engine has seemed fine ever since. Also my cat's I heard need to be stripped (or whatever you call it). I think they are clogged... Truck is throwing a code for being too lean. And it does seem like it chugs when accelerating. Almost like I did not have as much pick up as it used to. Any problem if I wait on this till spring? I don't want to continue driving it if I'm going to blow the motor or destroy a cam phaser.

techrep

iTrader: (1)

With almost 300K on those cats..I would replace them.

nrivera04

Also a suggestion, up your oil to 5-30 and consider using a "high mileage" oil. They'll have some more additives added to help with aging engines. I've never really been one for the aftermarket additives, but the "Engine Restore" engine restorer was popular among some of our mechanic shops for older engines.

Agree with Tech here on the cats... If you're hesitant to replace, at least have a pressure test done.

Check your FPDM just for gee whizzes too. Replace if corroded.

Eric Kleven

Regular 5w-30 oil should be just fine for a 50,000 mile engine, no reason to change to anything exotic. If you feel like it needs some help, a pint of Marvel's Mystery Oil will do a pretty good job of cleaning things up without harming the engine. Motorcraft filters only, please.

If it starts in on the passenger-side 'dry start rattle', do the tensioners ASAP.

these engines shouldn't need much more than on-time preventative maintenance and/or timely repairs as necessary to live a long life. If it starts to act up, take care of it PRONTO.

SCORGE

He should be good, considering the motor was rebuilt. One would hope.

Arizona Tumbleweed

A block heater might help.

SCORGE

IDK if this helps....but I always hold the pedal down for a second or two when starting the truck. In my mind..maybe it helps build oil pressure. Zero evidence to back this theory up, though lol

1971 442 W30 conv

Install a real oil pressure gauge, factory guage is nothing more than a idiot light with a needle. Oil pressure is very critical on these engines and they are weak in the oil pump department.