Originally Posted by
alloro
Yes you can use an 05 head. The problem was there were only 3 threads holding the plug in. Starting in 05 the heads came with 5 or 6 threads. You can get rebuilt heads on eBay for a lot less than what Ford will charge you.
Alloro,
For the record, so the newer heads will work even though they were designed as a 3v motor instead of the original 2v? I'm taking this as there is no compatibility issues? Thanks.
Also, sorry to hear about the plug ejection. It was by accident that I actually found out. I did a Google search for "ford 5.4l problems" or something like that and it was one of the top hits. Although it bothered me, I still bought my '97 and did a plug change within the first month of owning it. When I removed the plugs, for me, number 3 was pretty "loose" feeling compared to the others. Good luck and make sure the dealership or whoever uses anti-seize and torques the plugs properly.