Kbrummer

I am new to the F150 and Ford in general. I'm looking at an 04 super crew with a 5.4 Triton. It has 71,000 miles.

1. What are some potential issues/maintenance around the corner as I approach 100K?

2. Also, I've done some research on engine ticking and some normal sounds. There seems to be a slightly stronger tick (not quite a knock) that's much louder under the truck near the front. Any thoughts. I'm having a few mechanics look it over next week, but wanted to ask anyway.

Just doing my homework. Thanks!
Kevin Brummer

Bonesofsteel

Spark plugs should be changed if they are originals, performed carefully.
Play in the drive shaft when slowing down or taking off "MAY" cause a clunk sound, this has to do with the slip-yoke or play in the drive shaft, you can re-grease it but it does not last long, I replaced mine. Not all 04 had this problem but mine did. Ticking is pretty normal. Mine sounds like a small diesel and I get a small ticking sound when I give it gas (coming from the left side) this does not effect the performance of the truck at all. Hope this helped a little. Good luck

Fergusmj

Interested to find out what else. I just bought an 04 FX4.

Kbrummer

Through a little more digging and asking, I've found that the louder tick under the truck is possibly an exhaust leak. Still haven't heard back from the dealership though.

I know that with my Land Cruiser (I know, I know - rice burner), at 90K you need to replace the timing belt and tensioner, etc.. Also, the starter is in a bad place and usually goes out by then. Knowing that the F150 has a timing chain, that's off the table. Anything else like that? What about fluids? What are you guys doing for regular and scheduled maintenance.

I'm hoping to pull the trigger on buying this week so any feedback will help me make an informed decision.

f150mashin559

its an exhaust leak. i have that problem too but its impossible to change because mine is on the passenger side and there is no room to get my hands in there. if your buying it from the dealership have them change all the fluids and plugs as part of the deal. this will save you a lot of hassle especially with the plugs.

Kbrummer

Good thinking. Thanks.

Larryw1

Having the plug change added to the deal is a great Idea read the thread titled (2004 - 2008 Ford F150-Spark plug nightmare) but make certain they changed everyone of the plugs!!

Do some review on the cam phaser ticking noise. (this may apply to 05 - 07 only)

These are the two things I have seen as problems

Just my 2 cents

Billup

Anyone know the cost of a plug change at the dealer?

Mod (Ret.)

It's parts PLUS labor time. If they break off plugs, it's longer labor time, and more money.

Do a search. You'll see price differences, based on time spent by the dealer.

Billup

Seems like if you took the vehicle to the dealer and they break off the plugs while changing them, it would be their baby to fix with no cost to the owner, isn't that true?