Cam Phaser/Timing Chain Problems
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 116
Likes: 23
From: Mobile, Alabama
Cam Phaser/Timing Chain Problems
I have a 1997 F150 Lariat with the 4.6 ltr engine, which has now 220000 miles on it and still runs like a dream and as quiet as a digital watch. Best vehicle I ever had. Now I am thinking of getting a 2007 Eddie Bauer Expedition, which has the 5.4 ltr Triton engine. And I am scared, after all the horror stories I heard about that cursed engine. Now I need to know the truth. I hear conflicting stories. What years are affected? I hear it's from 2004 - 2008. Is that correct? Than I hear that only the 24 valve (3V) engines are affected. Is that true? I was also told that if I get the 5.4 ltr Triton 16 valve version I would have no problems. The same goes for the 4.6 ltr Triton engine. Is that true? Did Ford actually make 2 different versions? I hope somebody can give me some clear guidelines to follow, which will help me decide what to do. Thanks!
Last edited by ueww40; Jun 20, 2017 at 09:18 PM.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 105
Likes: 11
The 2004-2008 5.4v are a crappy motor... I'm sorry I bought mine but will survive.
Bad plugs (unless changed with new parts, you can't tell unless you pull them)
Phasor/VCT/tensioner issues
bad paint
Drivers seat bolster is gonna sag
Center console foam comes off
Manifolds that crack
Those are the biggies. Unless you're getting a SWEET deal.. like $5k under book or something better I'd walk right past any ford.
Also the v6 have spark plug issues (they shoot right out the block).
Bad plugs (unless changed with new parts, you can't tell unless you pull them)
Phasor/VCT/tensioner issues
bad paint
Drivers seat bolster is gonna sag
Center console foam comes off
Manifolds that crack
Those are the biggies. Unless you're getting a SWEET deal.. like $5k under book or something better I'd walk right past any ford.
Also the v6 have spark plug issues (they shoot right out the block).
LightningRod
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 2,412
Likes: 651
From: San Antonio Texas
The Ford Modular engine started with the 4.6 in 1990 for the 1991 year model. Several variations were marketed from 1997-2010 under the Triton name, the 5.4L 3v was one from 2004-2010. Ref:Wikapedia "Ford Modular engines". ('04-early '08 shared a different head design & plug. The one's @MilosF150 calls a crappy motor.)
In the V8 lineup, the latest evolution of the Modular engine is the "Coyote" (2011-2017) has FOUR phasers instead of two and 32 valves instead of 24 like its predecessor. But Ford is not moving away from the modular design or variable valve timing, but toward twin independent variable cam timing - with steel chains. It seems to me, about the same percentage of owners have trouble with them. It is just that WHEN problems arise - it is a real PITA, whether its a Ford 5.4, 5.0, Chevy or Dodge. Just check the 07 out carefully and if it has been maintained well, go for it and continue good maintenance.
In the V8 lineup, the latest evolution of the Modular engine is the "Coyote" (2011-2017) has FOUR phasers instead of two and 32 valves instead of 24 like its predecessor. But Ford is not moving away from the modular design or variable valve timing, but toward twin independent variable cam timing - with steel chains. It seems to me, about the same percentage of owners have trouble with them. It is just that WHEN problems arise - it is a real PITA, whether its a Ford 5.4, 5.0, Chevy or Dodge. Just check the 07 out carefully and if it has been maintained well, go for it and continue good maintenance.