Hello!!!

This is one step to take towards holding Ford accountable.

Considering that many of the 1997 4.2L engines experiencing gasket failures were not included in Recall 99B29, this is a step towards expanding that recall.

Although Ford doesn't acknowledge 99B29 as a recall, it is listed by the NHTSA as such. Therefore filing a Vehicle Owner's Questionnaire at https://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/oscripts/IVOQ/VOQ/voq1.cfm will give this issue priority status with Government Investigator's. Each and every complaint is also forwarded to Ford.

It's very important that information provided is accurate, complete and stated with a common language between all of us.

-Use the full name and address of the registered owner
-Leave a contact phone #
-Answer "Yes" to the question on page #1 of whether or not a copy of this report should be forwarded to the manufacturer
-Provide complete VIN
-Vehicle make: Ford (not Ford Truck)
-Vehicle Model: F-150
-Engine size is: 4.2L
-Major Assembly: Engine

-Assembly Description:

This is vital: If the timing cover gasket failed, it must be worded as "Front Engine Cover Gasket". If the lower maniflod gasket failed, it must be worded as "Lower Intake Manifold Side Gaskets". If a head gasket failed, it must be worded as "Head Gasket". (Looking at the engine from the front, the driver side is the "Left" cylinder and the passenger side is the "Right").


The final page is titled "Description/Additional Comments". The wording I used is:

"Front Engine Cover Gasket failed in line with Recall 99B29. Ford does not include my truck, built 05/97 in Recall Campaign 99B29 indicating the original recall has been inadequate."

For the lower manifold gaskets, I stated:

"Lower Intake Manifold Side Gaskets failed, allowing coolant to leak into engine oil. Issue is addressed by Ford with TSB Article No. 99-20-7."

This wording is very important because it is the same language Ford is using and will allow for a simplified data search. Please forward this information to anyone you know who's experienced these problems and encourage them to file.

E-mails can also be sent to, Ann O'Neill at aoneil14@ford.com
Ann O'Neill is the Executive Director, Customer Service Division. North America. She handled the 99B29 recall as well as the head gasket warranty extension of the '95-'96 3.8L Windstars.

 

All of the direct contact #'s are now listed at Blue Oval News.

http://www.bonforums.com/contacts/contacts_fordreps.htm

You can now call your regional Ford representative and avoid their call center altogether, if they have been less than helpful.