2001 Expy 5.4L with 68,000 miles

Need some advice...
I'm getting ready to replace the original plugs - now 7 years old. Expy is running fine, just not as smooth as she used to. After much research on this site, I'm obviously going with the Motorcraft plugs. What I have not been able to determine is:

- Should I replace the boots/springs while I'm already tackling the plugs?

- If so, should these be Motorcraft parts as well?

- Finally, am I correct in assuming that I should not replace the COP's since I have not had any problems with them?

Thanks!

 

I know for a fact that we have some very knowledgeable folks on here. Can anyone please help out a fellow Expy owner who does not have much experience in this area?

 

I have a 2001 5.4 w/ 160k miles. I had to replace the intake manifold gasket, so I decided to do spark plugs at the same time since everything was stripped down. I put in new motorcraft plugs that replaced old champion plugs, which were incorrectly gapped way to small. Truck idles smooth now. I found that the rubber on two of the boots were breaking down. Replaced them with after market boots which came with springs. If your boots look ok just leave them. No need to touch the COPS if they work fine. I recommend pulling the boots from the COPS to inspect, clean and lube connections with dielectric grease. One other thing...vacuum out or air gun out the holes before removing plugs.

 

Good info.You can buy cops on e-bay for a lot less than the stealership. I purchased 8 for $96.00. That dielectric grease is a great tip.

 

if it were me, and its not, i would replace the boots at the same time. like said above, the boots come with springs. If your going to take the time (and it takes time) to get in there and remove the plugs, might as well do the boots, that way you do not have to do it all over again later.

 

Good info guys, thank you! I think I will replace the boots/springs as well. I know that these modular engines like the Motorcraft plugs. Should the boots be Motorcraft as well, or can I save a few bucks and get new boots from my trusty Napa dealer?

 

Check this place out for stuff. They carry Denso boots/wires for the Ex. I have purchased stuff from them and they are a great outfit to deal with. I have not purchased anything for the Expedition as yet. We have a 2000 EB 4WD with 3.73 gearing and @82K miles. I will start collecting plugs, boot/wires etc. for a change soon.
Regards,
aba
http://www.sparkplugs.com/results_app.asp

 

Ragaz, while you're in there and have it all apart, swap the #1 and #4 cylinder Coils.

#4 coil seems to go bad most often, and it is the hardest to get to. This way down the road, (or even after the tune up.. which does happen from time to time) if it takes a dump, it'll be much easier to get to.

Just a little advice I've figured out on these puppies. Good luck