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Newbie here so sorry if this has been talked about before. Wife has a ‘08 Expedition that started idling really rough and showing multiple misfires about 8 weeks ago. Replaced all the coils and plugs with Motorcraft parts, still had the misfires. After doing research I found that it may be a vct solenoid so when I removed the valve covers to replace those I noticed the #3 exhaust valve cam roller laying in the bottom of the head a little closer look and the valve spring is broke (keeper and keeper shims still in place). How likely is it that there was no damage done internally to that cylinder and all I need to do is replace the valve spring?
I would replace the spring and see how it runs. Also I would look at the engine oil and change it after the engine is reassembled but before I started it.
Richard
I would replace the spring and see how it runs. Also I would look at the engine oil and change it after the engine is reassembled but before I started it.
Richard
Thanks, that’s what I was hoping to hear. Any recommendations on pressurizing the cylinder vs the rope technique for keep the valve from dropping? I was looking a little closer at the spark plug I pulled and the ceramic is cracked all the way up. Any ideas on if these two issues are related? Also, I just changed the oil to Motorcraft 5w30 and added Lucas stabilizer.
You sound like a DYI guy - good. I've been one all my life. The two issues may be related because that cylinder may have run hotter than normal for a while. I would proceed with repairs and see how it runs. If it runs rough do a compression check on all of the cylinders.
I would use the air compressor technique with about 30 lb psi. I think it is safer. But it does take more gear. Make sure you have the piston up top when removing the keepers & spring.
Check out the valve stem seal when you have the spring off.
Late last year I installed new valve stem seals in my '95 4.6 two valve without removing the cams. I bought a special valve spring compressor for $30. online.
I think there a different valve spring compressor that will do the same for your 3 valve 5.4.
I know you didn't ask but I agree with 5w 30 oil but never use any aftermarket additive in my engine oil - Lucas stabilizer included. Just my opinion.
Good luck,
Richard
2007 Navigator
You sound like a DYI guy - good. I've been one all my life. The two issues may be related because that cylinder may have run hotter than normal for a while. I would proceed with repairs and see how it runs. If it runs rough do a compression check on all of the cylinders.
I would use the air compressor technique with about 30 lb psi. I think it is safer. But it does take more gear. Make sure you have the piston up top when removing the keepers & spring.
Check out the valve stem seal when you have the spring off.
Late last year I installed new valve stem seals in my '95 4.6 two valve without removing the cams. I bought a special valve spring compressor for $30. online.
I think there a different valve spring compressor that will do the same for your 3 valve 5.4.
I know you didn't ask but I agree with 5w 30 oil but never use any aftermarket additive in my engine oil - Lucas stabilizer included. Just my opinion.
Good luck,
Richard
2007 Navigator
Working on modern engines have always scared me because I didn’t know anything about them. When it went down and I was quoted $1,000 in labor worst case scenario I decided I bet get to researching. Thanks to forums like this I have been able to know what I am looking at and then get input from you guys on what’s going on and if it’s something I can handle. Luckily I believe this is something I can fix. When I get the repairs done I’ll drain the oil and refill with 5w30 only. Trucks only with the Lucas in it to check for leaks and level after the oil change.
