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just joined. not sure if i'm posting this in the right place. the ranch where i work just got a used 1999 f-150 5.4 4x4 at, with 114k miles.the truck was a theft recovery so i have no history or idea of maintnence. the truck runs great, but when you drive it there is a severe shuddering when you try to accelerate. you can drive any speed once you get to it with no problems(easy on the accelerator), but if you come to an incline or you step on the gas then you get the shuddering, in all gears. you can rev the motor as high as you want with no problems. the truck also coasts fine. my guesses are torque converter, catalytic conv., or trans. i have checked the fluid, looks really clean, and the level is good. i do all the maintence on our 4 trucks, all super duties with over 175k, but all manual trans, this is my first experience with post 95 f150's. i have a lift and good facilities if that helps in offering any advice. thanks for any help and advice.
Last edited by whits; Nov 16, 2005 at 09:50 AM.
Reason: new title
The first thing to check on the newer trucks is for DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes). However, they will usually trigger the SES (Service Engine Soon) light. You probably should get a scan tool; it'll save you a lot of wrong guesses.
Actually, the most common cause of this kind of behavior is a misfire. Check your coils and wires. If you have individual coils on each spark plug (COPs), one has probably gone bad. The scan tool can tell you which one. Another possibility is the wrong transmission fluid. If your dipstick says "Mercon V" you must not use regular Mercon.
i also would guess a motor fireing problem. sounds like it has a problem under load. either no gas to one cylinder, or no fire to that cylinder. i agree you need to get some codes or take it to someone for a diagnostic check. torque converter or trans should be a constant problem.