Hello everyone,
I have a 2004 F150 with the 5.4. and seems to have all kinds of problems! Lol. Its had the ticking noise for about 3 years. Dealer changed cam phasers back then and didn't fix anything. Couple days ago, pulled out from a stop sign and truck back fired through what sounded like intake. Stayed running but with no power and very rough/shaking, especially in O/D. Dealer ran diagnostic, EEC tests, power balance test, relative compression test, manual compression tests(#1 45-50 lbs). Possible problems from them were #1 cylinder valve, cam phasers, cam/crank shaft thrust bearings. Recommendation from them was new motor.

Friend of mine checked it with his handheld diagnostic and it gave no codes but vacuum reading was bouncing.

I was reading another article from someone with same symptoms as mine and he was suggested to replace VCT solenoid and it fixed his problem.

Is there a way to test/check VCT solenoid. Screens did not appear dirty. Also, I started the truck without solenoid electrical plug connected and it didn't seem to affect it. Nor when I plugged it in while truck was running.

Does anyone agree with VCT theory or possibly PMS comp. bad?

Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks

 

LOL, Well, I guess it has everyone else stumped to!!