I know this is no help at this point but I have taken a bunch of flack for changing plugs every 20000 miles. Does my F150 need it? NO, but it gets the parts cleaned an lubricated before problems show up. KM

 

That is some minor seepage from the VCT solenoids. The seals can be replaced but looking at the dirt all over the engine, I would guess the leakage is very minor and you could wipe up that oil and keep an eye on it.

The ticking is most likely the high pressure fuel pump - considered to be normal.

 

mine have been seeping for forever. If I ever get around to doing the vacuum pump on the back of the pass side head I'll address it then. Seems the best/easiest deal is to buy new OE valve covers that already have all the gaskets installed if I remember correctly (just one of those things, buying say a felpro kit with the VC gasket, spark plug donuts and VTC seals ends up being close to the OE price of the cover with all the gaskets)

 

Do you need to disconnect the wire to remove the coil pack from the plug?

 

there's usually not enough slack in the harness to pull the coil up off the plug with it still connected

 

positively.

 

The connectors use a two part lock. The first part has to be slid open then the second part of the lock can open and the connector will then come apart. I use a little WD40 on the connectors to make them open a little easier. I also purchase new plug boots along with the plugs, so in the event that a boot tears, I'll have a replacement. I also use a small amount of grease that is made for electrical contacts on the plugs before inserting them into the boots. It makes it easier to remove them the next time.

 

inreplaced all boots and the rubber at the top of coil.

i put a little dielectric grease at end end of the boot, but the old ones were dry.

 

Damn...that has to be one of the filthiest engines/engine bays I have ever seen!

 

I think you should change them every day. You know, a mile after you install them, they're no longer pristine and perfect.