Since the last post of the sticky was over 10 years ago, I figure I'd ask if there was an updated procedure. My plan is to crack the plugs 1/8-1/4 turn, spray the plugs with AeroKroil and let it set overnight. My engine has 214K miles and I've had it since 150K. I have no idea if the factory plugs are still in or if they were changed before I got the truck. Either way, I'm not expecting this to be an easy task. I had read some time ago that some were adding seafoam or something similar to their gas tanks and running that through before changing plugs. Is this a common practice now? Is there anything else I should do in preparation?

What plugs are the suggested plugs to use? I plan to buy the Lisle tool to have beforehand. With my luck, more will break than do not.

I should have changed out the plugs and COPS when I did the timing job about 4K miles ago but I wanted to tackle one major repair at a time.

Thanks for any help provided.

 

This might help: https://www.f150forum.com/f4/plugs-r...l-tips-532835/

 

I doubt that you still have the original plugs in a motor with over 200K on it. Are we talking 5.4L 3V here ? if so you want to change the boots and springs also while your changing the plugs. What year is the truck ? 04-07 use the new SP546 one piece motorcraft plug. motors built after 10/07 use a SP509.

 

I like the idea of working the plugs out little by little. Out until they bind, in and then back out another part of a turn past bore where they bound up the last time hopefully. Once a bit loose the bore can be juiced up with some Kroil. I swear by the stuff having worked with millwrights for years. Hopefully the sea foam trick works, I put it in a bit rich, 2 Oz to the gallon.

 

That post happened 2 years ago Greasy. Thanks for your insight though.

 

As somebody who is the owner of a 2004 F-150 (with the 5.4L 3-valve engine), I am well aware of the "history" of some of the trucks from this era suffering with the "broken plug in the cylinder head" problem. I have very low mileage on my truck - only 62,000 original miles - as it doesn't get driven very often. I still have the original paint, original exhaust system and the original brake pads (about half of their life remaining). The truck runs great, aside from being a tad thirsty, and has been a great part-time vehicle.

I know that most spark plugs are supposed to be replaced around 100k miles and I had planned on getting mine done around 70k, but maybe I don't need to. My concern was the age of the truck more than the mileage. Back in October, I had the upper & lower radiator hoses replaced.......along with a BG coolant flush. I also had the BG brake flush service done. The trans & differential were done by the previous owner at about 45,000 miles. The fluid on the dipstick is still nice and pink (which is good). It is also kept in a garage.

If I have the spark plugs done, should I take it to a Ford dealer where things are always more costly? I have heard that a special tool is required to "tap out" any broken spark plug. Also, should I spend a lot of extra cash and have the wires & coil packs done too? I used to have a Silverado and did that around 80,000 miles and it really made a difference in how the truck ran. This is my first F-150. My only other Ford truck was a 1985 Ranger that I owned back in the late 1990s.

Nice to know that other people here have 200k and more on their 5.4L engines. As seldom as I drive this truck (twice a week), my toddler grandson will be of driving age before it would hit 200,000 miles. Haha!!

 

Colored fonts are rough on the eyes and hard to read!

 

With my old eyes, it actually makes it easier for me to read. Sorry about that.

You can always use your computer to change the color if you wish.

 

agreed, terrible.

 

I did all 8 of the spark plugs in my 05 w/5.4 3v. I put in a can of sea foam in a full tank of gas 1-2 weeks before doing the spark plugs. I replaced the plugs at around 90K miles & they all came out without breaking. I did buy the removal tool just in case. See my post here, it is the second one. Plugs removal/lisle tool tips - Ford F150 Forum - Community of Ford Truck Fans