Michael Sugarman
Active Member
We just got bit by the 5.4L spark plug gremlin. Ford still says there is not a problem, but the Ford vehicle owners say otherwise. I think there are only 5-6 threads holding in that 3/4" threaded end. It vibrates loose and then kapowie!
If you notice an exhaust leak noise, you may want to check all of your plugs. I think the torque recommendation is 11 ft lbs. There are several kits available to fix the problem. Time-sert looks like a good one.
I called the Ford Service shop at a couple of local dealers. They want ~$400 to install a helicoil. A local sevice shop wants $350 + parts to install a Dorman kit. Did I mention that when it blows, it takes the coil out with it? That is another $70. It looks like around $500 to get the one hole fixed by a "professional".
Anyway, there is a lot of information out there regarding this phenomenon. I recommend anyone with a 5.4L 1997-2005 to be extremely cautious. At least one giy's truck caught fire and burned to the ground.
Good Luck!
If you notice an exhaust leak noise, you may want to check all of your plugs. I think the torque recommendation is 11 ft lbs. There are several kits available to fix the problem. Time-sert looks like a good one.
I called the Ford Service shop at a couple of local dealers. They want ~$400 to install a helicoil. A local sevice shop wants $350 + parts to install a Dorman kit. Did I mention that when it blows, it takes the coil out with it? That is another $70. It looks like around $500 to get the one hole fixed by a "professional".
Anyway, there is a lot of information out there regarding this phenomenon. I recommend anyone with a 5.4L 1997-2005 to be extremely cautious. At least one giy's truck caught fire and burned to the ground.
Good Luck!
