I have a 2009 F250 with the 5.4 motor w/195k currently. Truck is in excellent condition, purchased used with 80k nearly 4 years ago. Uses/leaks no oil, only issue so far was replacing both exhaust manifolds.
Starting to run rough when cold, I am quite sure it needs a major tune up-not sure if it has ever had one. Scared to death about the spark plugs and being able to get them out, have heard all the horror stories. I see tune up kits on ebay using Ford parts for typically 200.00, they include the coil packs. Are these reasonable and does this include what I need?
Also, since it appears the coil packs get replaced....can I dump about 4 cans of Gunk Engine Brite on the motor while its hot prior to starting into this project?. I used to clean all my engines once a year and had issues with coil packs on a 01' F150 5.4 after doing so many years ago. Learned the hard way($)but since they are being replaced anyway maybe now is the time. Motor is disgustingly dirty and I cannot stand looking at it.

New to the site........thanks in advance for any advice.

 

Changing spark plugs on one of these motors has many a newbie scared to death----the horror stories here and elsewhere can do that to a guy---or gal too.

Its a good idea to change plugs at 50K miles so its possible your's are in somewhat dire need of being replaced. Over and over again here we've learned the best plugs are Motorcraft or Autolite--essentially the same plug just different logos etc. Removing plugs can be a bit of a slow and tedious process but proceeding carefully and following a few simple steps makes this infinitely easier than it might seem at first.

There's no real need to change the COP's unless they've failed, especially with a cheap "kit" from eBay. What you do need along with new plugs are the boots and contact springs-----don't cheap out with any of those parts. I use an NAPA/Belden USA made part, about $5 each.

FWIW I'm running an '00 E250 w/5.4 motor @ 275K miles still on the factory original COP's.

You do need to pay careful attention to disconnecting COP's from the wiring harness as the locking tabs can be easily broken and cause intermittent contact, CEL coming on showing misfire.

I also use a dab of nickel-based anti-seize on the plug threads, torque them to about 22 ft/lbs with a good quality torque wrench. This assures tight plugs that don't back off after a few thousand miles after being renewed.

Plan on this taking a good 2-3 hours if working non-stop, at least your first time out. If getting it done in a hurry isn't a concern that's much better---can proceed at your own pace not under the gun to get 'er done.

Anyway more help here if you need or want---------just ask!