Chad81

I purchased a used 07 F150 with the 5.4 that had 53k miles on it back in June, it now has 57.5k miles and today I was going to add some oil when I noticed a thick, yellow caked up substance on the cap with some water in it. The dipstick didn't show any signs of contamination yet and the coolant level has barely moved. I wiped off the cap and took it for a 15 minute ride and when I returned I removed the cap again and there was condensation and some smoke coming out.

The dealership I purchased the truck from included the warrantyforever that allegedly covers powertrain repairs so long as you keep up with the scheduled maintenance. Has anyone heard of the warrantyforever? Sounds like a bunch of bologna to me, guess I'll find out tomorrow when I call the dealership to let them know what is going on. I have noticed a decrease in power along with a rough idle and decrease in fuel economy so it comes as no surprise the head gasket is in the early stages of failure.

Needless to say I'm steamed and rightfully so!

Bennyv83

So 4000 miles in 5 months? Sounds like you're taking short trips, and the motor isn't getting hot.

Change your oil, clean the cap and change your driving habits.
Then come back in 3 months and let us know.

Brandmaner

Driving short distances bad? I only put about 120-150 miles a week on my truck and sometimes less lol. Works only 5 miles one way. So 50~ miles for work.

djfllmn

iTrader: (1)

yea short trips are hard on vehicles i may only drive my truck 50 miles a week but when i do drive it i make sure it gets up to normal operating temperature

Bubba Sides

X2 I see this all the time on cars at the shop that dont go far enough to boil the water out of the crank case each drive cycle.

Brandmaner

What's normal operating temp? I have a gryphon programmer and I watch my trams temp oil temp and etc temp (engine) and it normally stays between 155~ if I'm driving sane and 170s when I get on it. Is this normal?

djfllmn

iTrader: (1)

id say thats normal

Brandmaner

Awesome

Bennyv83

Engine temp 155-175? Mine's rock solid at 195.

You'd probably save some gas with a hotter t-stat.
This would probably help with your sludge problem as well.

Brandmaner

Really? Also rember the hottest it's been around here lately is low low 70s to mid 60s. Most days 60 or below though.