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Old Jan 10, 2019 | 08:31 AM
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Late model 08 question

what was the cutoff date for updates to the 5.4 spark plugs ,coils etc? How does one know if they have the truck with the “fixes” ?
 
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Old Jan 10, 2019 | 02:16 PM
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Originally Posted by 03redstx
what was the cutoff date for updates to the 5.4 spark plugs ,coils etc? How does one know if they have the truck with the “fixes” ?
I'd say just pull the easiest plug to get to and see how many threads you have in the head, although I think the thread issue was fixed back in 2001 or so ( I'm probably wrong). . As for the plugs themselves, the latest part # is SP546 from Motorcraft (don't use any other brand, not even Champion). Not sure about the updates to the COP's.
 
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Old Jan 10, 2019 | 07:39 PM
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OEM Ford MotorCraft Parts (click here)

Use your VIN to locate the exact part for your Ford.

I see how most people believe that you have to use MotorCraft. Especially with ignition parts. I will toss in my 2 cents, and tell you that I do not. My truck is using aftermarket parts just fine. I believe that while most over the counter parts in auto supply store just don't work well in Ford engines, you can use other aftermarket parts which do work well. I'm currently using E3 spark plugs without an issue. Autolite, MSD, Denso, & NGK have worked for me in the past with other Ford engines.

Do not follow my lead and install an aftermarket part, just to see what would happen. I encourage you to use MotorCraft, if you are worried about something not working. You don't need to experiment, just to find out what works and doesn't work. MotorCraft parts are not the most expensive on the market. Not a good idea to spend twice as much, or try to save a little, only to have problems. Use your best judgement. I see spark plugs from $1 to $10. I've seen ignition coils from $12 - $125. Even wire sets can run from under $20 to over $100.

In case you're wondering why: E3 spark plugs were eighty-eight cents on Amazon. I didn't expect to gain power or mileage like they advertise. But for that price, it was a bargain. I figured that I could always change them out if they didn't work.
 
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Old Jan 10, 2019 | 08:06 PM
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The reason I ask is I’m pretty sure I have a loose plug ...I have the ticking and fuel smell in the cab...was just wondering if I had the 3 piece plugs or single ..spark plug tool just arrived in the mail today so I’m hoping to tackle it in the next couple days
 
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Old Jan 10, 2019 | 08:17 PM
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Originally Posted by Fifty150
OEM Ford MotorCraft Parts (click here)

Use your VIN to locate the exact part for your Ford.
After you enter your VIN, Ford Parts will give you the exact plug needed for your truck. Then you will know which spark plug you need to use.
 
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Old Jan 11, 2019 | 07:40 PM
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the two piece spark plugs was in 2006 era ......... I THINK by 2008 that was fixed... But anything is possible. What is your mileage? In 10 years the plugs have never been changed ?
 
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Old Jan 11, 2019 | 08:12 PM
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I bought it in June with 117000 it has 120000 now and the tick and fuel smell are hard to mask in winter with the windows up
 
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Old Jan 11, 2019 | 08:59 PM
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Hang a little tree off your mirror.
 
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Old Jan 12, 2019 | 06:14 PM
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try this
 
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Old Jan 14, 2019 | 07:42 AM
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this video is exactly why im looking at loose plugs as my issue...identical sound and fuel smell...no exhaust leaks at all..this guy has some great videos
 
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Old Jan 15, 2019 | 07:38 PM
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does this boot look funky to anyone? All the others were black
 
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Old Jan 15, 2019 | 07:53 PM
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Old Jan 15, 2019 | 08:58 PM
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Tick is gone!!!!!! Can’t tell if the fuel smell is bcuz my nose was frozen ...I’m psyched
 
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Old Jan 16, 2019 | 02:57 AM
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There are people who swear by using only Ford MotorCraft parts. They will quickly point out that your AutoZone Duralast parts are the problem and that you should have used MotorCraft.

Not me. I use aftermarket parts all the time. And I don't believe that OEM Ford parts are the best. Sometimes, you can do better with aftermarket parts. Just not AutoZone Duralast. RockAuto carries a bunch of coils listed as "standard replacement". And if cost is a factor, they also have very low cost "economy" options. You get the idea that you get what you pay for. I would not recommend installing an ignition coil which only cost 1/3 of the price.




Standard Replacement UNITED MOTOR PRODUCTS COP8 United Premium OEM replacement COP coil; w/ High Temp Rated Gray Silicone Extended Life Boot Info
Straight Coil$16.85$0.00$16.85Add to CartWVE/AIRTEX/WELLS 2G4W AdvanTech
with Black Coil Boot$24.89$0.00$24.89Add to CartUNITED MOTOR PRODUCTS COP15 United Premium OEM replacement COP coil Info
w/ OEM brown boot$25.79$0.00$25.79Add to CartDELPHI GN10182 {#3L3Z12029BA} Info
Direct Boot; Black$29.79$0.00$29.79Add to CartSTANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS FD508 {#3L3U12A366BB, 3L3Z12029BA} Info
w/ Black Coil Boots$30.79$0.00$30.79Add to CartSTANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS FD509 {#8L3Z12029A} Info
w/ Brown Coil Boots$34.79$0.00$34.79Add to CartNGK 48717 {#U5150} NGK COP Info
w/Black Coil Boots$35.79$0.00$35.79Add to CartDELPHI GN10233 {#8L3Z12029A} Info
Direct Boot; Brown$36.79$0.00$36.79Add to CartNGK 48874 {#U5260} NGK COP Info
w/Brown Coil Boots$40.79$0.00$40.79Add to CartDENSO 6736200 {#8L3Z12029A} Coil on Plug Info
w/ Brown Boot; Original Equipment Part$42.79$0.00$42.79Add to CartMOTORCRAFT DG511 {#3L3Z12029BA} Info
w/ Black Coil Boots$44.79$0.00$44.79Add to CartMOTORCRAFT DG521 {#8L3Z12029A} Info
w/ Brown Coil Boots$56.79$0.00$56.79Add to CartDENSO 6736003 {#3L3Z12029BA} Coil on Plug Info
w/ Black Boot; Original Equipment Part$31.79$26.10$57.89
 
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Old Jan 16, 2019 | 03:01 AM
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But then again, when you think about upwards of $50 per coil, with 8 coils.......over $400 + tax!
 
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