A few years ago, when I got my 96 F150, 302 4x4; I had a spark knock problem under load along with a check engine light. I took it to a buddy of mine that ran a diagnostic check and found that it had a "Cylinder 6 missfire" problem and he also said that from what he know it couldn't be programmed out. He said that it was actually a recall item, but that since my truck had over 100,000 miles on it, that it probably wouldn't be covered. The fix is basically a new ECM. Well, I just learned how to work around the spark knock over the next 3 years by shifting down whenever I heard it and got along just fine. Well, the time has come for an engine rebuild (I think the missfire contributed to an engine knock, sounds like a wristpin) and I plan to replace the computer.
Is there any tricks to replacing one?
Have any of you guys heard of the Cylinder 6 missfire?
I plan on going to a local wrecking yard that specializes in trucks and buying one for $50. I called the local Ford dealership and they said to plan on $800 to $1000 for them to do it. Hmmm, $50 for a chance of a bad one or $1000 for the Dealership.
Any input would be appreciated.