Truck 2003 F350 SD cab chasis
5.4L v-8, 153xxxmi, auto trans, manual transfer case

Well got a leaky head gasket (left side) So I'm going to pop the engine and replace the head gaskets. Is there anything else suggested I should do while I have the engine tore down?

 

do you have to pull the engine out just to put on a new head gasket? also mark, bag and tag all parts, so you will know the exact place they came out of..

 

As it appears now, (and according to Ford's suggestion) yes otherwise not enough clearance but will find out more as I work

 

Just throwing ideas out here, but timing chain, maybe tensioner. Consider the water pump? Are you going to get the heads checked?

Todd

 

Yes the heads will be checked, probably new seats and the works. New gaskets from heads up. Might pull the lower end and inspect that. But was also wondering about any known weak points with the 5.4

 

The exhaust studs are crap. I'd replace them, unless they've been done already.

 

Cab chassis? Is that still a pick up cab and not a van?

Definitely no need to pull engine. The right (passenger) side requires three hands as a few of the head bolts can't be fully removed. But the left side is very clear of everything.

If you remove the radiator, fan, and upper radiator support, you have a nice big hole at the front of engine to stand in and easy access - just step over the bumper.
It only takes an hour or so to pull stuff, and makes this one of the EASIEST in vehicle head pulls you'll ever experience.

 

My $0.02 worth:
Unless the truck has been abused, 153K is nothing for a mod engine. These engines are NOTHING like engines from the 80's and earlier... And modern quality lubricants are amazing. 400K+ is routine in properly maintained versions - even ones that are worked hard.
Go ahead and check things out for peace of mind, but if they ain't broke, let them be.

Do's:
- As with any aluminum head vehicle, follow factory torque procedures (in and out) to a T!
- Use OE head, intake, and exhaust gaskets. They're extremely good.
- Replace head bolts. They are torque to yield.
- Definitely replace exhaust studs and nuts. One of the few known weak points.
- At 153K, may be worth replacing cam chain. Not a necessary, but as they wear, they do retard cam timing. Changing now may bring back a scosche of higher rpm power - which you need in a 5.4!
- If it were me and I had the cash available, I would change water pump as well. 15 minute job while you're in there. I do that on all vehicles with 10 years or 100K+ on them. Again, I would use NEW OE Motorcraft pump. Cost a bit more, but proven durability.
- Same with lower coolant hose. Easy access, and rubber doesn't last forever. Peace of mind is good.