How To: Spark plug change-2004-2008 5.4 3V V8

[kozal01]

Be advised! Neither F150-forum.com or myself will be held liable for any damages, injury's or death caused by doing this swap yourself. This is just a guideline for those that wish to save the money and do this yourself.




This is a hot topic around the forums but I have not found another full write up on how to do this swap here so I thought I would share my experience in the form of a "How To".

Here is a list of tools/ parts and other preparations I gathered before I did the swap. (your list may vary)

* Spark Plugs (I used the Motorcraft SP-515 Platinums. $9.50 from www.rockautocom)
* 9/16" Spark plug socket (I made my own with a 9/16" deepwell with a piece of rubber 1/4" ID hose in socket.)
* Various extensions, the plugs are pretty deep in the head.
* 10mm socket for removing the PCM and bracket
* 8mm wrench for to remove the battery cable
* 7mm socket for the bolts that secure the COP to the head
* Impact gun. I used a 1/2" drive but a 3/8" drive would work as well.
* PB Blaster penetrating oil
* Carb cleaner
* Air nozzle
* Dielectric grease
* Anti seize
* Lisle broken spark plug removal tool- part# 65600 (I got mine used online for much cheaper than a new kit)
* A cold beverage or two of your choosing.

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Ok Now that you have the supplies you can get started on the swap. To prepare myself for this I read thread after thread, watched video after video and talked to several people who have don this to find out what methods and tricks worked and what didnt and from that info I formed my plan.


First thing I did was warm up the engine, once its warm shut the engine off and disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery.

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Now unplug and remove the PCM and PCM bracket. Its on the firewall on the passenger side by the battery, it needs to come off so you can get to the rear plug on that side.

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I used bungee cords to pull the PCM harness and other hoses back out of the way.

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Also to free up some space I unclipped and removed this vacuum line and got that out of the way.

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Ok now that everything is out of the way its time to remove the COP's and COP boots from the spark plugs but before you do take your air nozzle and using compressed air blow out the pockets around the COP boots, alot of dirt and crud accumulates there and you dont want that falling down into the plug hole when you remove them. Once you remove the 7mm bolt that secures the COP and unplug it the COP will then pull right out with the boot attached to it. I numbered my COP's and layed them out in order out of the way.


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Ok now that the COP's are out of the way now you can start on the plugs themself.

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I used compressed air again to blow and dirt or crud that may have been in the plug hole under the COP boot just to be on the safe side. Now take your 9/16" plug socket with the extensions and a 3/8" drive ratchet and just crack each plug loose by hand, dont go any further than that.

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Next, grab your PB Blaster and Carb cleaner and shoot a bit down into each plug hole, dont go crazy with it but get enough in there to get the job done, just remember whatever you put in those holes will flow down into the cylinder after the plug is removed to dont use to0 much of it.

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Now, grab a beer or a coke and hang out for an hour or so to let the penetrating oil and the carb cleaner do their job.

Ok now that the fluids have had time to soak in and soften up the corrosion and carbon build up its now time for the moment of truth, grab your Impact, extensions and plug socket (I turned my impact down to the lowest setting and lowered the air pressure on the regulator to about 60 PSI) and start buzzing the plugs out. You will need to use a u-joint with your extension to get to the rear most plug on each side.

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I should have played the lotto today because all 8 of my plugs came out without a wimper.

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Ok now at this point, hopefully you have had the same success as I had and you can breath a sigh of relief and be ready to install the new plugs. If you werent so lucky its time to break out the Lisle tool and go to town. (if anyone reading this that has successfully used the broken plug extractor please chime and and tell your experience)

Next, grab your new plugs and your anti seize and coat the end of each plug with a thin coat of anti-seize. There is some debate about whether or not to coat the threads, I chose not to but its up to you.

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Now drop the plugs down into the holes and torque them down to the proper spec. (28 foot pounds)
Now clean any dirt and grime off the COP boot paying attention to the end that goes over the plug, if there is any old dielectric grease on it clean that off and apply new grease to the boot and COP spring. Once that is done drop the COPS back into the plug holes and fasten them back down. (dont forget to plug them back in) Re-assemble the vacuum line (s), PCM bracket and PCM and re-connect the battery. Now youre ready to start the truck and see how it runs!

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After it fires up and purrs like a kitten grab another cold beverage, stand back and admire your work knowing you just saved yourself $500 to $1000 by doing this yourself! (I had $116 into parts and supplies not including tools and beer)

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After doing this swap successfully I can honestly say this is one of the easiest plug jobs ive done thus far on any vehicle. Had any broke that would have added another degree of difficulty but if your a do it your selfer like I am and youve been thinking about doing this yourself dont let it intimidate you. Just do as I did and prepare for the worst but hope for the best. Hope this write up helps somebody. Good luck!

[rangerwheelinmike]

sweet!!

[2002VertGT]

Does this not cover my 2004 5.4l 3v?? I'm pretty sure it does ;). Just saying..

[kozal01]

Does this not cover my 2004 5.4l 3v?? I'm pretty sure it does ;). Just saying..

Good catch, I made a typo in my title. Yes it does cover it.

[bearskinner]

so whats the idea behind coating the plug,............ I would think doing the trheads lightly would aid in future changes if it makes it that long

[kozal01]

so whats the idea behind coating the plug,............ I would think doing the trheads lightly would aid in future changes if it makes it that long

Well the part of the plug that I coated is what seizes in the head and can cause them to break so thats why I coated that part. Some people coat the threads to but I dont think thats needed, the threads arent the issue.

[Fordzilla80]

So judging by the pictures, I take it the gap is preset on those plugs without any chance of adjustment?

Cool write-up Patrick! Can't say I will ever own one of these trucks, but it's good to see what the job entails.

[kozal01]

So judging by the pictures, I take it the gap is preset on those plugs without any chance of adjustment?

Cool write-up Patrick! Can't say I will ever own one of these trucks, but it's good to see what the job entails.

Yep the gap is set, no way that I know of to gap them. The job really wasn't all that bad honestly, it was easier than doing the plugs on my ranger I know that!


Sent from my iPhone 4S using Tapatalk

[Fordzilla80]

I see.

It doesn't seem too bad at all as long as the plugs don't break off. Did they ever solve that issue on the newer 5.4's or was it a problem all the way until they dropped the 5.4?

[kozal01]

Yeah they fixed it, I think it was around 07 or 08


Sent from my iPhone 4S using Tapatalk

[Fordzilla80]

That's good to hear. That was a costly problem for those who aren't mechanically inclined.

[rangerwheelinmike]

Yeah they fixed it, I think it was around 07 or 08


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Well mines a 07 and it needs them soon hope mines after all the problems

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[aceunderfire]

Thanks a million for this post. I have a 06 5.4L with 78000 miles on it. I have been meaning to change them but a little intimidated on the plug issue. I bought the truck with 30000 on it and have religiously change oil at 3000 with synthetic and used Lucas fuel system treatment at every oil change. My brother in-law is a master tech and refuses to change them... lol. Hopefully I'll have as much luck as you did....

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[aForddriver]

I have a 99 lightning its got the 5.4 in it and the only thing i can recommend is to either buy heli-coils or bring it to a shop so the can warranty their work bud good luck

[kozal01]

I have a 99 lightning its got the 5.4 in it and the only thing i can recommend is to either buy heli-coils or bring it to a shop so the can warranty their work bud good luck

The 3 Valve 5.4's dont have the same problem with blowing plugs out of teh head like the 2 Valve 5.4's so no helicoils needed. The 04+ 5.4's plugs tend to stick in the head sometimes requiring a special tool to remove them.

[2004XLT5.4LTritonV84X4]

I'm gonna change mine on Saturday! Thanks for putting this up!

[2004XLT5.4LTritonV84X4]

Welllllll.............I'm currently doing my plugs.....I had 5 break off :/ So we'll see how the Lisle tool works lol :) I'll try to post some pictures and tell you guys how it works:)

[kozal01]

Welllllll.............I'm currently doing my plugs.....I had 5 break off :/ So we'll see how the Lisle tool works lol :) I'll try to post some pictures and tell you guys how it works:)

If you can, post it here as a "how to" write up

[2004XLT5.4LTritonV84X4]

Got it done! five broke off, but with the Lisle tool it was amazingly easy! I'll try to post pictures later.

[kozal01]

Got it done! five broke off, but with the Lisle tool it was amazingly easy! I'll try to post pictures later.

Great news! Glad it went smoothly.

[2004XLT5.4LTritonV84X4]

521

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525
Here's the hole with the plug in it. Sorry, bad angle...

513
The puller in the hole....there is a nut that goes on it to do the actual pulling. And I missed getting a picture of the "pusher" of the ceramic piece. VERY easy to use!

512
What stays in the head when it breaks off. Again, note the rust, that's what causes the problem. You can see the puller screwed into the plug in this picture. The puller goes inside the piece of aluminum that you can see in the previous picture, and then a left-hand nut threads onto the puller (a plastic washer goes on there too).

511
Directions:)

510
New materials! I went with Motorcraft plugs again....kinda maddening that they're made in Mexico through...I drive a USA made truck! Make sure to put a lot of anti-seize on them and you won't have this problem the next time (if you own it then...or the next guy:)). I also went ahead a bought new "boots" that go in between the plug and the coil, they didn't cost that much, and I figured it would be worth it. Make sure to put the dielectric grease on them too.

509
What one came out as.

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What 4 unfortunately came out as...this is the big design flaw, the crimped on threads pull off of the plug itself. If they come out like this you will need to break the ceramic part...not a big deal, just do it and it's easy.

507
What they're supposed to come out looking like. Note the rust on the lower part of the plug, that's what causes them to break off. It binds in the head and when you try to pull it off the outer part is all that comes.Oh, and by the way....you have to pull them out with a socket, you can't just pull the boot off and have them come LOL:D Yeah, just thought I'd mention!

506
All the coils and boots....with some of the plugs.

514
Pulling it out! Just so long as they squeak, you know you're good! Just like when you pull them out any other time!

Here's some pictures of pulling the plugs that broke off....sorry it took so long to get them here. The way I tried to pull my plugs was by what one of my mechanics told me, he said he's had only two ever break off in his time. What he said to do was just to get the engine as hot as you can, and pull them out as quick as you can, just so long as they squeak on the way out you know they haven't broken. Start with the hard ones at the back. I do know that there is the danger of messing up the head (since they are aluminum), but I chose to go this way....at almost 120,000 miles then and never having been changed, it probably would've been better to go the slow and easy way as explained in the earlier part of this thread! Sorry some of the steps are out of order...it's really self explanatory when you read the directions that the tool comes with. It is a ton easier than I thought it would be, four of them took 5-8 minutes a piece (at most!) and one I had a little trouble with the threads catching on one. The one I had trouble with only took like 20 minutes, just make sure that if you have trouble with it catching that you don't push the ceramic in too far with the tool the metal piece on the end of the plug will break.....and you don't want to loose pieces in the cylinder. Good luck! Ask any questions and I'll be glad to answer what I can!

[2004XLT5.4LTritonV84X4]

Hey guys, sorry this is all messed up. When I went to add more pictures to it and make it more detailed it did this. Is there a way to get all the pictures on here that i want to? And maybe big like the ones at the beginning of this thread? Sorry again, I will try to get this fixed.

[kozal01]

Hey guys, sorry this is all messed up. When I went to add more pictures to it and make it more detailed it did this. Is there a way to get all the pictures on here that i want to? And maybe big like the ones at the beginning of this thread? Sorry again, I will try to get this fixed.

Matt if you post the [IMG] link from your attachments they will show up full size.

[2004XLT5.4LTritonV84X4]

DCS04501

Like this?

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ok, are you saying like copy it off of the photo deal that pops up?

[chuck]

Like this?

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ok, are you saying like copy it off of the photo deal that pops up?

9/16 plug socket. Pull plug till first one breaks. Tow to dealer. 800 US Dollars later. Plugs may work. This sucks

[kozal01]

DCS04501

Like this?

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ok, are you saying like copy it off of the photo deal that pops up?

Yes, just like that


9/16 plug socket. Pull plug till first one breaks. Tow to dealer. 800 US Dollars later. Plugs may work. This sucks

You give up that easy?

[zgoldwingman]

Is there a new replacement plug by Motorcraft that is one piece so you don't have this problem again? I have a friend that told me Champion makes one, he owns an auto service center, and used the Champions. Personally I've never used any other plug in my Fords since 1966.

[kozal01]

Motorcraft SP515 is a redesigned plug, its not one piece but the long end of it is smaller than the stock ones so them getting stuck will not be an issue down the road. IMO stick with Motorcraft, Ive not heard many good things about the Champions in these trucks. Ford motors have been picky with plugs for a while.

[zgoldwingman]

I think you should be commended highly on this procedure. After reading your article I decided to change my plugs with 73,000 miles. Just took them out today, 3 broke. Have a friend thats going to loan me his Lisle tool, so hopefully will finish tomorrow. Once again, THANK YOU.

[kozal01]

I think you should be commended highly on this procedure. After reading your article I decided to change my plugs with 73,000 miles. Just took them out today, 3 broke. Have a friend thats going to loan me his Lisle tool, so hopefully will finish tomorrow. Once again, THANK YOU.

Glad I could help! Good luck getting the broken ones out. Let us know how it goes!

[zgoldwingman]

Glad I could help! Good luck getting the broken ones out. Let us know how it goes!

The Lisle tool worked very good. Ran across a Ford Bulletin on the 5.4 sparkplug service. They give pretty much the same advice for doing the job as you, except for one. They advised against warming the engine up. I had already started removing my plugs before I read their "service bulletin". So I did warm mine up, and the first three came out in one piece. So warming it up didn't hurt. By the time I got to the 4th one, the engine had already cooled down. I think my biggest mistake was loosening the plug more than the 1/4 turn as suggested. I probably went 1 full turn. My plugs weren't corroded, only one had a little on it. It was one of the three which broke. I did push one down too much with the tool and broke the firing tip, falling into the cylinder. Before I put any plugs in, I got one of the cheapo clear gloves and covered it with grease and held my hand near the cylinder plug hole and had the wife to spin the engine over. Caught enough particles in the grease I was fairly certain everything came out. I was very afraid of something being caught under a valve, but either way would require head removal. Guess I got lucky, it runs good . Thanks again for your help.

[codwel09]

New info!! Try using a smaller impact driver to get the plugs out. Supposedly it takes them out a lot easier without breaking them. I just replaced mine today in about an hr and a half and only broke one spark plug. My truck is an 05 with 103000 miles on it. And the tool that ford sells is junk. Go to advanced auto and buy their tool for about $100 it doesn't involve gluing a piece to get the rest of the spark plug out. It pushes the ceramic forward some so you can use the other piece in the tool set to screw into the metal piece surrounding the ceramic and back it out no problem. The one I broke today came out within 10mins of being broke. And that was just using the tools in the kit no hang ups.

2005 XLT 5.4L V8, flow master catback duals

[05norcal150]

What size impact driver did u use exactly?

[codwel09]

Well it needs to be big enough to get the plugs out but its jot like you're trying to take lug nuts off. I have a rather medium to large hand due to finger length and the impact was slightly bigger then my fist.

2005 XLT 5.4L V8, flow master catback duals

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Sorry I can't exactly tell ya what size but then again I don't think its the size that matter just don't go too big

2005 XLT 5.4L V8, flow master catback duals

[kozal01]

New info!! Try using a smaller impact driver to get the plugs out. Supposedly it takes them out a lot easier without breaking them. I just replaced mine today in about an hr and a half and only broke one spark plug. My truck is an 05 with 103000 miles on it. And the tool that ford sells is junk. Go to advanced auto and buy their tool for about $100 it doesn't involve gluing a piece to get the rest of the spark plug out. It pushes the ceramic forward some so you can use the other piece in the tool set to screw into the metal piece surrounding the ceramic and back it out no problem. The one I broke today came out within 10mins of being broke. And that was just using the tools in the kit no hang ups.

2005 XLT 5.4L V8, flow master catback duals

If you read my walk through you would see I mentioned I turned my impact down all the way as well as turned the pressure down on the compressor, the point is to not hammer the plugs to pieces.

[codwel09]

I apologize I read it but that's been a few weeks ago. Ha

2005 XLT 5.4L V8, flow master catback duals

[baldyman]

my truck is an '04 4.6L V8 and my question is whether the spark plug issues are the same with the 4.6 as they are with the 5.4? as well, if anyone has done a spark plug swap on an '04 4.6L, how they did it and what plugs they recommend? thanks!

[Jersey_Joe]

I have a 03 5.4 but I have done them twice on an 04 4.6. And had an 03 4.6 cobra. Use motorcraft plugs. And it's not to bad. Not as easy as a 6 but not to bad.

[baldyman]

does the 4.6 also use the two piece plugs? and should i invest in the lisle tool or something similar?

[RhinoZ24]

Use the motorcraft spark plugs and get them from Ford, a little bit more than just plain old universal plugs, but that'll insure you get the right one. As for the tools it up to you, it might make it a little easier but it's still gunna take some time. It's basically the same as the 5.4L, just a little smaller but still cramped up. By the way I have an 05 4.6L, so same setup.

[kozal01]

does the 4.6 also use the two piece plugs? and should i invest in the lisle tool or something similar?

No it doesnt, just regular plugs.

[baldyman]

okay thats good news. thanks for all the insight guys.

[RhinoZ24]

No problem, that's what the forum is here for lol, for help and advice. Good luck when you change them!

[baldyman]

thanks! ill post up some info and a pic or two to this thread when its done

[RhinoZ24]

Sounds good.

[fearon]

So I did my plugs today 5 of the 8 broke. That sucked, but overall it was easier than I thought it would be. The lisle tool was well worth the money I don't think I could have gotten them out without it or all the tips I've been reading thanks to all the people who take time to post

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I followed the steps in this post. Plus I have a thin magnet to get the plugs out of the hole after it cleared the threads.

[kozal01]

So I did my plugs today 5 of the 8 broke. That sucked, but overall it was easier than I thought it would be. The lisle tool was well worth the money I don't think I could have gotten them out without it or all the tips I've been reading thanks to all the people who take time to post

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I followed the steps in this post. Plus I have a thin magnet to get the plugs out of the hole after it cleared the threads.

Glad it went well for you. The magnet idea is great, I didn't have one and used a long pair of needle nose pliers to get them out.

Sent from my iPhone 4S using F150 App

[baldyman]

think anyone could point me towards some info on removing coils to change the plugs on my '04 4.6L? hate to sound so nooby lol

[RhinoZ24]

It should be basically the same as the 5.4L, like I said same setup with that stuff, just smaller. I'm planning on changing my 05 4.6L Plugs in about 2 weeks when the semester is over and I have time, if you don't change them by then, then I'll try and make a write up with pictures for the 4.6L. No guarantees though lol.

[baldyman]

i might try it tonight and see how it goes. got two exams out of the way so far so i have a little more time for my truck at least

[baldyman]

i was able to get the passenger side bank plugs out no problem, but for some reason i cant get the 5/8" spark plug socket to grab onto the driver side plugs :S are they at a weird angle or something?

[RhinoZ24]

They shouldn't be, did you move all the wires out of the way and stuff, you may need to remove the fuel rail to get better access to them. Like I said it's all cramped up and it's a pain in the ass, not like the glory days of vehicles where you could see the whole engine and everything was easy to get to because there was room.

[baldyman]

ya im just slow. when i popped the coil boot out a bunch of dust and rust flecks fell around the plug so i couldnt get my socket onto the plug nut. was able to blow out the hole with a compressor

[RhinoZ24]

That's good to hear, did you get them all done then?

[baldyman]

finished the passenger side bank, going to do the driver side bank tomorrow or saturday. the old plugs werent particularly corroded, but had a pretty big gap

[RhinoZ24]

That's never good, and hopefully the rest goes well. I gotta order my plugs and I'm thinking about replacing my fuel filter too just because, but Idk yet. First thing I'm doing after the semester ends is washing, waxing, and detailing my truck, plus cleaning out the inside and Armor-All/Mother's the plastic and stuff lol. Then the plugs.

[baldyman]

thats pretty much my to do list as well. the birds decided to do a bombing raid on my truck so it needs a cleaning. i got the rest of my plugs out tonight. it was much easier with the block warm.
i also used a compressor to blow the dirt and rust specs out that fell around the plug when i removed the boot

[RhinoZ24]

Get that bird s*** off now, I had one on my tailgate over summer for maybe 2 days max before I noticed it and it took the clear coat off and now there's a noticable mark, damn birds. And good to hear that you got the job done. BTW did you use the Lisle tool or no?

[baldyman]

took for a wash today. still looking good thankfully. i didnt need to use the lisle tool. i removed the plugs with the motor fairly warm and they came out easy. i was so nervous to break a plug that i took about five minutes to crack loose each plug lol

[RhinoZ24]

Haha, that's good to hear, and awesome, that means I don't need to buy a $100 tool lol.

[baldyman]

well i hope yours go as well as mine and you dont end up needing the tool! im curious what the gap on your old plugs are. the ones i removed had nearly double the gap of the oem plugs

[RhinoZ24]

I'll find out and let you know, well if I get to it lol. Hopefully I do.

[lee reece]

Going to try the spark plug change on my 07 F150 5.4 . Has anyone used these E3 plugs? The guy at Orielys said he has had several good reports on them ! So I will try them out. I have got little over 88,xxx on truck and don't think they have ever been done! So I'm going to change them my self cause ford wants $900 to do it!!! This is what I got to do the job: deep creep ( SeaFoam), high temp anti-seize, with E3 plugs and also have the plug removal tool! Have parts pics included.

[RhinoZ24]

I'd get the Motorcraft plugs, the Triton motors don't like other brands very much lol.

[TritonBullet]

Keep this updated as i need to change mine but do not want to break a plug.

[RhinoZ24]

The how to showed the steps for it. And with the 5.4 it's highly like one or more will break off. You have to be really gentle and careful for them to not break. It's possible, but the 3V motor is notorious for it. That's why the Lisle tool is made specially for those motors lol.

[lee reece]

Keep this updated as i need to change mine but do not want to break a plug.

You bet!

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I'd get the Motorcraft plugs, the Triton motors don't like other brands very much lol.

So you have never used E3plugs then?

[RhinoZ24]

Nope, from what a lot of users say on here, the trucks run best with the Motorcraft plugs.

[Jersey_Joe]

E3's r good fer a dirt bike or a mower. But not as good fer ur car.
Both 3v motors r bad. 4.6 and 5.4. I have the tool. Works great. Broke on in a 07 explorer and almost ****. Lol. But snap on guy came and saved the day. Lol. I u have serious hp. Motorcraft might not be the best thing for u. But. I'm craking 1000 in my mustang and it has factory motorcraft plugs. Lol

[lee reece]

Nope, from what a lot of users say on here, the trucks run best with the Motorcraft plugs.

I will try them cause they claim 5 yr warranty with better efficiency and power! If not then put the word out! Heres pictures to look at what they claim:

[kozal01]

They can claim anything they want, most companies trying to push a product will. Ive heard no good things about any plugs in these fords than motorcraft, no reason to use anything different.

[lee reece]

They can claim anything they want, most companies trying to push a product will. Ive heard no good things about any plugs in these fords than motorcraft, no reason to use anything different.

I agree normally I would not use anything other than motorcraft but am curious to no and shouldn't take very long to see what the results are? 1 tank of gas to see how it performs! I'll let you no how! Later!

[RhinoZ24]

Alright, your truck, your choice. We can't decide for you, just give you advice. I recall hearing about problems with other plugs however, such as detonation in the cylinders if I recall correctly. These motors are picky with they're parts. However, you may find the E3 plugs to work well for you, just keep us updated and goodluck.

[TritonBullet]

I always use motorcraft..thats what i ran in my ranger..it did not like auto lite even..so im gonna rent a lisle tool..and get the new plugs for my truck and tear into it..oh and some deep creep and high temp anti seize. But i would have went with the new design spark plug for these motors..ford said there not supposed to break.

[lee reece]

I always use motorcraft..thats what i ran in my ranger..it did not like auto lite even..so im gonna rent a lisle tool..and get the new plugs for my truck and tear into it..oh and some deep creep and high temp anti seize. But i would have went with the new design spark plug for these motors..ford said there not supposed to break.

That's why I got this plug because its one piece but am curious that ford said to use the champion plug -which I have used in older models- but have had success with autolites too... Well I'll report how it does if I don't change my mind before I get to change them .lol

[TritonBullet]

They have a new one piece motorcraft.

----------

They have a new one piece motorcraft. Its like 15 bucks.

[lee reece]

They have a new one piece motorcraft.

----------

They have a new one piece motorcraft. Its like 15 bucks.

The ones I have were 10 bucks!

[badazzfseries]

No doubt motorcraft they are designed for our trucks and deff antiseize the plug threads

[RhinoZ24]

Hey Pat, I know you have the 5.4L and I have the 4.6L, but it should almost be the same process right? And how many miles were on those plugs when you changed them? My truck only has 62,500 miles on it, but since the plugs are 8 years old now, I'm wondering about corrosion and if I should change them.

[kozal01]

Hey Pat, I know you have the 5.4L and I have the 4.6L, but it should almost be the same process right? And how many miles were on those plugs when you changed them? My truck only has 62,500 miles on it, but since the plugs are 8 years old now, I'm wondering about corrosion and if I should change them.

Honestly Ryan I dont know, havent worked on a newer 4.6, last one I worked on was a 98. The 4.6's dont have the same plug issues as the 3V 5.4's so it should be pretty straight forward for you.

[lee reece]

Ok the E-3 plugs I used have a couple thousand miles on them and so far are running well . The mileage I am getting is awesome 19/20 hwy! I have no complaints to list! Very happy with the performance as I have the edge programmer and run on stage 1 tranny mode and like the shift'n !

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[Jersey_Joe]

No kiddin. That's cool man. Glad ur happy with em

[lee reece]

Thanks Joe it's 07 3v 5.4 and sips like v-6 to me. I'm used to a 95 ram with 5.9 so night and day!! Lol 8-10 mpg at its best?

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[RhinoZ24]

Ok the E-3 plugs I used have a couple thousand miles on them and so far are running well . The mileage I am getting is awesome 19/20 hwy! I have no complaints to list! Very happy with the performance as I have the edge programmer and run on stage 1 tranny mode and like the shift'n !

Sent from my iPhone using F150 App

Is that an increase from the previous plugs?

----------




Honestly Ryan I dont know, havent worked on a newer 4.6, last one I worked on was a 98. The 4.6's dont have the same plug issues as the 3V 5.4's so it should be pretty straight forward for you.

Ok, but would you recommend a change because of the age and possibility if corrosion, or should I just wait until I hit 100,000 miles like the owners manual says?

[lee reece]

Well Ryan not sure what I was getting before really cause when I bought the truck around 87xxx and changed them soon after! I think 75-80xxx is plenty of miles on them IMO.

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[RhinoZ24]

Well Ryan not sure what I was getting before really cause when I bought the truck around 87xxx and changed them soon after! I think 75-80xxx is plenty of miles on them IMO.

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Alright thanks. I guess I'll wait a few more years and 17,500 more miles lol.

[kozal01]

Ryan it won't hurt it to change them early, I never wait the 100K interval, I like to do them every 50K personally. When I did my ifs at 75K they were worn, I likely would have started to notice it running rough well before the 100K mark.

Sent from my iPhone 4S using F150 App

[RhinoZ24]

Alright, I want to do it myself, but I'm no master mechanic. I learned on the old school cars like the '71 Buick I have. That was easy lol, this thing looks like a monster. I don't like the idea of taking out a bunch of stuff to do it either. But it will save me a ton of money. Does anyone know if the 4.6L 2V had the same problem pre-2007 of plugs breaking off? Also, are the plugs torqued down to 28ft-lbs. just like the 5.4?

[jamiefree2]

Rhino I did mine on my 05 4.6 it was really easy hardest one to me was number 8 or the on against the firewall on driver side.

jamie

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As far as them breaking off i dont think so.I loosen mine and tighted them and so forth and I didn't have any trouble at all

jamie

[Jersey_Joe]

They do break Ryno just gota have the tool ready and sitting there when they do lol. It sucks I know but what ya gonn do when u got two broke and u gota go to the store and get the tool. Ya know? I have it. I'd let u borrow it but your 3500 miles away lol. If u play the odds? I'd make sure u have the tool. Cause yes thy may break. But it's really easy to get em out. Just as long as u have the tool. If u don't. Your gonn stare at it fer awhile. Cause u need the tool. They should just hand em out with the trucks when u buy em lol. Good luck. Here if ya need me

[RhinoZ24]

Rhino I did mine on my 05 4.6 it was really easy hardest one to me was number 8 or the on against the firewall on driver side.

jamie

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As far as them breaking off i dont think so.I loosen mine and tighted them and so forth and I didn't have any trouble at all

jamie

Alright thanks! I think I'll do them myself, I heard the 4.6 didn't have the same problems as the 3V 5.4 with spark plugs. So thanks.

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They do break Ryno just gota have the tool ready and sitting there when they do lol. It sucks I know but what ya gonn do when u got two broke and u gota go to the store and get the tool. Ya know? I have it. I'd let u borrow it but your 3500 miles away lol. If u play the odds? I'd make sure u have the tool. Cause yes thy may break. But it's really easy to get em out. Just as long as u have the tool. If u don't. Your gonn stare at it fer awhile. Cause u need the tool. They should just hand em out with the trucks when u buy em lol. Good luck. Here if ya need me

From what I keep hearing and the video tutorials I watched on YouTube, I think the problem was limited to the 5.4's and the later 4.6 3V, luckily I have the 2V. But thanks and I'll hit you up when I do them.

[baldyman]

I changed the four passenger plugs with the motor warm, then ran it again for a bit and changed the other four. just take your time and wiggle the coils a bit until they are loose before you pull them off

[RhinoZ24]

Alright cool, and no issues with plugs breaking is good. I'm gunna order some plugs and get the other stuff to clean and lubricate for the new plugs. Hopefully I'll get time to do it before the semester starts in a month and a half.

[baldyman]

another thing that i encountered was a lot of dirt/dust falling around the spark plug when i removed the coil because of the plug going straight down. i bent a piece of copper pipe and stuck it into a compressor line, then blew out all the dirt from around the plug before removing it

[RhinoZ24]

another thing that i encountered was a lot of dirt/dust falling around the spark plug when i removed the coil because of the plug going straight down. i bent a piece of copper pipe and stuck it into a compressor line, then blew out all the dirt from around the plug before removing it

Yeah, I heard it was a good idea to blow it out before removing the plug to make sure no dust/debris falls into the cylinder itself. Thanks for the tip though!

[baldyman]

no problem man! hey what kind of plugs are you planning to use? i've been hearing a lot of good about the e3 plugs, anyone here use them?

[kozal01]

Motorcraft. Dont waste youre hard earned money on gimmicks. Fords are picky on plugs, Motorcraft works just fine.

[baldyman]

ya? alright thanks for the heads up!

[RhinoZ24]

no problem man! hey what kind of plugs are you planning to use? i've been hearing a lot of good about the e3 plugs, anyone here use them?

Motorcraft, I try to keep my truck as OEM as possible. I used them for my fuel filter, coolant, and any replacement parts.

[baldyman]

i used motorcraft for my last plug change. they worked great during the cold up here so i'll probably use them again next time. i was just curious about the e3 ones

[RhinoZ24]

I can't remember who, but I think earlier in this thread someone posted about them. I think it was lee Reece. He had no complaints. But I like Motorcraft lol.

[lee reece]

no problem man! hey what kind of plugs are you planning to use? i've been hearing a lot of good about the e3 plugs, anyone here use them?

Yes I used the E3 plugs when I changed about 3 months and I don't have any complaints about them or negativity! I took the chance and heard everyone's opinion about them but I have first hand see the results! '07 3V 5.4 screw FX2 with the edge evolution programmer and one setting 1 ( adjusts the shift points ) I get 19/20 mpg on the hwy. no bs

Sent from my iPhone using F150 App

[baldyman]

Yes I used the E3 plugs when I changed about 3 months and I don't have any complaints about them or negativity! I took the chance and heard everyone's opinion about them but I have first hand see the results! '07 3V 5.4 screw FX2 with the edge evolution programmer and one setting 1 ( adjusts the shift points ) I get 19/20 mpg on the hwy. no bs

Sent from my iPhone using F150 App

that's pretty impressive. my big concern with them is firing in the cold. i live in Ontario and it got pretty chilly last winter

[RhinoZ24]

I think I'm gunna wait till winter break for mine now. I'll have more time to dedicate to it instead of just one day. That way just in case something goes wrong, I won't have to worry about not having a truck for work or school.

[baldyman]

thats a good idea. better to take your time on it. plus it'll be a nice change from engineering :p

[lee reece]

that's pretty impressive. my big concern with them is firing in the cold. i live in Ontario and it got pretty chilly last winter

You should look at them and then you will see the differance on firing surface and that's why I wanted to try them. The result came in my favor and its a good feeling lol

Sent from my iPhone using F150 App

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I think I'm gunna wait till winter break for mine now. I'll have more time to dedicate to it instead if just one dat. That way just in case something goes wrong, I won't have to worry about not having a truck for work or school.

Look you will be nervous the first 2 or 3 then after that you will no what to expect. Then comes time to use good ol lisle! Lol you can do it it just takes a little longer :)

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[RhinoZ24]

thats a good idea. better to take your time on it. plus it'll be a nice change from engineering :p

Yeah, better to have the time then try to rush and mess something up. And I know right? Lol, help me de-stressify a little I guess, well unless I f*** something up or break a plug lol.

----------




You should look at them and then you will see the differance on firing surface and that's why I wanted to try them. The result came in my favor and its a good feeling lol

Sent from my iPhone using F150 App

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Look you will be nervous the first 2 or 3 then after that you will no what to expect. Then comes time to use good ol lisle! Lol you can do it it just takes a little longer :)

Sent from my iPhone using F150 App

I'm gunna do it myself, just waiting till then when I have more time to dedicate to it so I don't rush through it and mess up my truck. And hopefully I won't need the lisle tool.

[baldyman]

Rhino, you have a 4.6 right? from what i hear you are a lot less likely to break a plug in the 4.6 than in the 5.4. not sure why that is though lol

[henduford]

Well done! Thanks for the post! Sucks that there are so many issues with the plugs. At least with the right tools, its manageable.

[Jersey_Joe]

Rhino, you have a 4.6 right? from what i hear you are a lot less likely to break a plug in the 4.6 than in the 5.4. not sure why that is though lol

NOT TRUE! The 4.6 is the worst offender for breaking plugs. And of course all the freinds and family know I have the tool to get it out lol. Done quite a few. Few 5.4's too. But man them 4.6's There tough

[baldyman]

huh! thats surprising. around here i havent heard of a single 4.6 having em break. but could be motors from different plants or just shear coincidence. i changed mine without breaking but maybe i just got lucky

[RhinoZ24]

Rhino, you have a 4.6 right? from what i hear you are a lot less likely to break a plug in the 4.6 than in the 5.4. not sure why that is though lol

Yeah I have the the 4.6 and Idk either.

----------




NOT TRUE! The 4.6 is the worst offender for breaking plugs. And of course all the freinds and family know I have the tool to get it out lol. Done quite a few. Few 5.4's too. But man them 4.6's There tough

How come the lisle tool says 3V engines? What 4.6's have you used them on? The Mustangs and Crown Victorias? Those were the 3 valve 4.6's, didn't have 3V 4.6 truck motors until '09.

----------

Not that I doubt you or anything, just curious.

[Jersey_Joe]

huh! thats surprising. around here i havent heard of a single 4.6 having em break. but could be motors from different plants or just shear coincidence. i changed mine without breaking but maybe i just got lucky

Yup u got lucky. Lol. It happins. But hey that's just my experience.

[kozal01]

Its only the 3V 4.6's that have the plug issues, the 2V 4.6's dont.

[RhinoZ24]

Its only the 3V 4.6's that have the plug issues, the 2V 4.6's dont.

That's what I thought too, must have something to do with the configuration of it. And the 4.6 3V wasn't in the F-150 until '09. So I have the 2V and hopefully no plugs that break lol.

[Jersey_Joe]

That's what I thought too, must have something to do with the configuration of it. And the 4.6 3V wasn't in the F-150 until '09. So I have the 2V and hopefully no plugs that break lol.

Good luck Ryno. I hope your good too lol

[RhinoZ24]

Good luck Ryno. I hope your good too lol

I hope so, won't know till winter break when I actually do them lol.

[2004XLT5.4LTritonV84X4]

Well gentlemen, I am currently sitting waiting for PB Blaster to do its wonders on the spark-plugs in my Dad's 08 5.4L. I turned them all out .25 turn, and threw the Blaster down there (I put plenty in....but I'm going to stick a paper towel in there to soak it all up right before i pull them)......it's been sitting since 6:30pm, and it's 8:15pm now. I think I'll just leave it until morning, and then finish it up. When I did the plugs in my 04 5.4L, I had 5 break off, but I got the good Lisle tool ($80 at Car-quest if I remember right), and only had one take me more than 5 minutes to get out (and that one only took me 20). Hopefully I don't need the tool, but if I do, I've got it sitting here! I'll try to get pictures and post up a "How-To" if I end up having to use it.

[Jersey_Joe]

Good luck Matt. Keep us posted

[2004XLT5.4LTritonV84X4]

Will Do!

[btoolguy1]

Good luck, i am do for that soon so any tips are greatly appreciated! I heard some the the engine warm and other like to use an air ratchet on it. It sounds like having the removal too is the key.

[2004XLT5.4LTritonV84X4]

Well, the good news is that I got all 8 plugs out no problem! The bad news is that they gave me the wrong plugs at the Ford Dealership. I'd heard a rumor that they changed plug design in 07 or 08....well, it's true they're a normal looking spark-plug. The dealership gave me the 04-06 style plugs, but they're open for another two hours and have the new ones in stock!

Also, I guess I won't be posting a How-To for the Lisle tool.I'll post up a few pictures of the 08 style plugs and such though, or maybe even do an 07-08 5.4L Spark Plug change How-To if I get ambitious.

[RhinoZ24]

That's good to hear, glad none of them broke during removal.

[btoolguy1]

Good for u Any tips?

[lee reece]

[QUOTE="btoolguy1;51665"]Good for u Any tips?[/QUOTE
There are a couple of right ups in the form under 4.6/5.4 . It's pretty strait forward how to . Not to bad to change really it does take a little longer to do.

2007 F150 XLT FX2 SPORT - 5.4l 3V 3.73 LIMITED SLIP EDGE/EVOLUTION PROGRAMMER

[willLHP]

I went from motorcraft to some E3 spark plugs and they're 15mm and the E3's are 5/8 standard size is that fine?

[lee reece]

Yes it's fine ! I've used them and like the performance with them! Let us no what you think of them if you would . I don't drive mine a lot cause I have a company vehicle that I drive for work f250.nice

2007 F150 XLT FX2 SPORT - 5.4l 3V 3.73 LIMITED SLIP EDGE/EVOLUTION PROGRAMMER

[RhinoZ24]

I think I've asked this before but don't remember and can't find the right thread. So...I'm going to replace my COP's when I change my plugs and was wondering if I had to go Motorcraft for those too? I'm using Motorcraft plugs but do I have to use Motorcraft COP's too or does it matter. Also looking at Rockauto.com I see some brands have the coil wire included and some say it's not included, it looks like a spring almost. Do I need a set that comes with it or no?

Dodge Sucks, Chevy Swallows

[alfie]

If it were my truck I'll just replace the plugs. And replace COP as needed.

U can use aftermarket cop if you wish. Make sure u get some that have been proven good. As some cheap ones give out RFI and can cause issues.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[RhinoZ24]

If it were my truck I'll just replace the plugs. And replace COP as needed.

U can use aftermarket cop if you wish. Make sure u get some that have been proven good. As some cheap ones give out RFI and can cause issues.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I've just been reading around and hear some people say there's we're brittle and broke when they changed the plugs. I don't want that to happen and not have any spares and be SOL until I can get them lol. And Denso has a decent priced set and I know Ford actually uses Denso parts because when I installed my new speakers I believe it was the window actuator that ha the Denso name right on it.

And do I need to get the coil wire spring thing too or no?

Dodge Sucks, Chevy Swallows

[alfie]

Honestly I don't change those either. They do sell aftermarket coil boots with springs. U just have to make sure the spring is installed all the way in the coil.

I have changed countless plugs and only broke like two boots. They were when I was a rookie too. When u take the 7mm bolt that holds the coil
Down. Turn the boot and coil
To break the bond between the boot and cycl head. Once u have done that pull the coil
Out. Cause if u pull the coil
Out with out breaking the bond it will be hard and this is why people break the boot.



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[RhinoZ24]

Honestly I don't change those either. They do sell aftermarket coil boots with springs. U just have to make sure the spring is installed all the way in the coil.

I have changed countless plugs and only broke like two boots. They were when I was a rookie too. When u take the 7mm bolt that holds the coil
Down. Turn the boot and coil
To break the bond between the boot and cycl head. Once u have done that pull the coil
Out. Cause if u pull the coil
Out with out breaking the bond it will be hard and this is why people break the boot.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Alright thanks for the tip Alfie! I think I might buy one or two COP's just in case so I'm prepared if something does break.

Dodge Sucks, Chevy Swallows

[Jersey_Joe]

Alright thanks for the tip Alfie! I think I might buy one or two COP's just in case so I'm prepared if something does break. Dodge Sucks, Chevy Swallows
You'll be fine kid. Easy fix

[RhinoZ24]

You'll be fine kid. Easy fix

I know just want to be prepared is all lol.

Dodge Sucks, Chevy Swallows