I replaced the plugs in my '02 5.4L about a year ago at around 65,000 miles. I'm a little over 80,000 now and was thinking it would be a good idea to recheck the torque on them. I started on the front passenger side and checked the first three and everything looked good. When I pulled the COP out on the last plug, the boot had a rusty red/brown residue or powder on it. I smelled it and it had a gasoline odor to it. This really made me nervous to check the torque, but it was still at 13 ft-lbs just like the other three I checked.

I decided to pull the plug to inspect it and it looked fine. Not much after I changed plugs last year, I replaced both heater hoses. I had a very slight leak from them where the connect to the heater core at the firewall. I also looked over the injectors, fuel rail, and lines but didn't see any signs of leakage.

Has anybody else noticed this residue on the COP boots before? I replaced the boots when I changed plugs, but I don't remember seeing any residues like that then. I have them stashed away some place, I'll have to dig them out and see if any of them have this dust on them.

Thanks for you time

 

I know FORD says 13 ft-lbs but check these guys out as they say 28 ft-lbs is preferred. Blownoutsparkplug.com Ford Spark Plug Thread Repair