my 2004 f150 fx4 5.4 triton started a knock, then within a week or two it kept getting progressively worse, especially when accelerating, eventually once the tuck was warmed up and would begin to decelerate it stalled, it will still start and run but i have not driven it since, what could be the issue?

 

IDK, man, sounds like a rod knocking if it gets worse on acceleration, but I don't know why the truck would cut off if it hasn't come through the oil pan yet.

 

ive gotten new plugs to put in, but ive also done some research and come across the potential of having a cracked or warped exhaust manifold or broken bolts

 

Could also be a badly clogged catalytic converter.

 

change both of your VCT solenoids, get the OEM parts. this should help.

 

you need to do some more looking at the truck and seeing if there are any codes. When you say "KNOCK" do you mean chugging due to misfire ? That could be COPS. New plugs is always a good idea. When it died, do you have fuel pressure ? When you turn the key , do you hear the fuel pump run for 3 seconds ? Could be a weak pump. Could be a failing fuel module. Need more info on "Knock".. Start the truck and let it idle.. does it "knock", does it have oil pressure, does it stumble ?