kd460

I have a 2012 5.0 with 52K on the odometer. So warranty will expire at 60k, and I am paranoid about the cylinder scuffing issue with some 5.0 engines.

I plan on checking compression this weekend, and the plan is to get engine up to operating temp, disconnect all the coil wires at the coils, pulling the coils and plugs, removing the fuel pump fuse, bleeding any remaining fuel pressure, connecting a battery charger to the battery to help with the drain/load on the battery.

Finally checking (and documenting) each cylinders pressure.


Am I on track as far as procedure? Am I leaving anything out? I know I can't get the throttle to stay open (need the ford scan computer stuff for that so I have been told), but I feel I will get plenty of air for what I am trying to do.


Curious if anybody else has done a compression test on the 5.0. I have done a few oil analysis and have one pending. No red flags with the wear metals and my last one was checked at 42k.


Otherwise, engine has no problems, I think I hear a faint knock every now and then but not sure. Thanks, KD

Tothemax

Seems like a lot of work for something that the dealership wont care about. Your motor isn't showing any issues, so why bother?

kd460

My thought is, if I have low compression in a cylinder, maybe even high wear metals in the oil, it will sound more convincing that an issue exists. More convincing than "I think I have a knock".


It could also convince me that nothing is wrong if the numbers are good and the oil analysis is clean.


Besides, even if it's all good, it's not a bad idea to document the compression so say in another 50k, I do it again, I have a baseline I can compare. It's a nice way to keep track of the overall health of the engine. I keep my vehicles a long time unless there is something really wrong with them. If so, then I move on.


I'm not to concerned about pulling 8 plugs, coils and a fuse or a wire connector(s). Should only be about 2 hours worth of time taking my time. Thanks, KD

Tothemax

I honestly don't think the dealership would do anything even if one of the numbers were low. Your not a service shop and the truck isn't showing any signs of having issues.


I would stop worrying and drive the truck. Do an oil analysis if it will make you feel better.

kd460

Yes, I will be doing both. I know they won't just order a tear down or short block just on my findings. But, if something is amiss, then I can push the issue with the dealer. I will even pay for a "diagnostic fee" if I find something unusual.


If the compression checks out OK, and oil analysis is OK, then I will sleep better at night at not worry about it and move on. But if I do find something, I will be glad I checked it out before the warranty expires. KD

Tothemax

Your time, your money. I got better stuff to do than worry about problems that are not present.

kd460

That's the nice thing about a compression test, it don't cost anything but a little time... 👍 KD