I recently read a thread that included the 2003 f150 and the 2004. Everyone said that the 2003 was way better because of less problems and updated heads. What I want to know is does my 02 not have updated heads? What things improved from 02 to 03. Did I miss something big getting an 02?

 

In 03 they supposedly upgraded the spark plug threads to 8 thread instead of 4 threads. The problem is, not all were updated in 03 and that's actually been proven.

You aren't missing out on anything with your 02. All you need to be sure of is that you follow the proper guidelines when changing spark plugs.

Make for sure!
Motorcraft plugs gapped to .54 assuming you have the 5.4 L
Do not use any anti-seize on the plugs
And the most important, make sure you torque the plugs down to 28 ft lbs.

There are millions of these trucks out there with the 4 thread heads that run great because people take care of them properly. That's all you really need to worry about.

 

Like I posted in another thread on the plug holes, the 8 threads were first used on the Canadian models with the Windsor engines (Made in Ontario Canada). The US versions were a bit slow in making it to market, because of slow builds at first. 04H's have 8 thread heads.

 

I read once they changed the intake manifold material or design so it didnt crack like previous years.

 

True, - 03's got an improved composite.