Just discovered a broken retainer ("spring") clip on my #1 - '00 F150 5.4 L. Read the code at Autozone - misfire #1 cyl. I believe the broken connector clip may have been issue all along - or not.

Read about people just zip tying a COP connector (assume most have broken clips like mine). How well does that work out? Apparently, the rubber seal (red) inside the connector compresses when on all the way - so it pushes back out some if clip is broken.

So far, replaced # 1 & 5 plugs (checked gap). Switched the COPs between #1 & 5 to rule out bad COP. Still misfire. But, haven't cleared then reread codes - yet.
BTW, Chilton's spec for resistance 4 - 10 ohms on these COPs appears worthless. Measured 2 - were both ~ 1 ohm.

Aren't the connectors commonly available at stores / dealer? I'm sure they break a lot. There's enough exposed lead wire that either a new one w/ pigtail or junkyard could be soldered on.

I assume from reading, the wires connecting to old one WON'T come out & insert in new one? Must get 1 w/ pigtail or used one?

Thanks.