Trying to get some documentation on paper and so far all internet searchs have come up empty. I work at an auto recycler and sold a customer a good running 5.4 motor from an 03 Expedition. He had a backyard mechanic install the engine and according to the Ford dealer where the vehicle is now parked the guy "butchered" the installation as far as wires and hoses going back to where they belong. The customer is taking us to court for selling him a bad motor.
Here is the crux of the problem : The backyard mechanic never did the motor to fire which does not surprise me because if he had cranck/cam sensors wrong or screwed up he could turn it over all day without firing. BUT.... the motor now has two cylinders with no compression. A local mechanic who has done multiple 5.4 installations says that when he bolted up the torque converter and if he turned the flywheel backward with the dual cam heads in this motor a saddle inside would cause the timing chains to be out of sync and bend valves in the heads. His theory is backed up by another trusted Ford dealer's head mechanic. Unfortunately the head mechanic says there probably isn't a Ford TSB or manual detailing this. He says the installation instructions at his dealership all have large warning on them to "follow installation protocol" with regards to this issue and that it is common knowledge taught when a mechanic is certified.
Any help with this from you experienced Ford guys? I really would like to have documentation on paper when we have to go to court. Thanks!
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Since the dealer says the installer butchered the installation, I would think that's enough to allow you to prevail.

As far as the turning the engine backwards and bending valves, well that sounds like a load of bunk. Just imagine how many engines would be trashed over a simple backfire or misfire when trying to start the engine. The fact that it's bunk would also explain the lack of available information on the subject. There's not going to be any documentation if there really isn't an issue.

 

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