How big a problem, plug blowing?
Cargo Master
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 3,489
Likes: 45
From: Central NY
Originally Posted by mcg2030
I did notice a loud ticking noise before it blew. You can go to your local auto parts store and ask them if they sell a kit. You never know and it's good to get a price on a kit before it happens.
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 629
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Cargo Master
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 3,489
Likes: 45
From: Central NY
Originally Posted by pronstar
all I've got to say is I'm lucky!
i see the ways to prevent and clean what falls into the cylinder, but it sounds like taking a chance to me....worrisome.
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 629
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Many, many people, on this site and others, and a few people who I know personally, have used Time Certs to good effect.
If it means anything, the 'net is usually a gathering place for people posting their problems, and I have not read one bad report relating to the Time Certs.
Some engine builders have even put them in as a preventive measure as they assemble their engines.
I think it's much less invasive than taking a cylinder head off. If you were using a high-speed drill to put the insert in, then I could see your concern, but if you do things carefully/slowly, I don't think you'll have a problem
If it means anything, the 'net is usually a gathering place for people posting their problems, and I have not read one bad report relating to the Time Certs.
Some engine builders have even put them in as a preventive measure as they assemble their engines.
I think it's much less invasive than taking a cylinder head off. If you were using a high-speed drill to put the insert in, then I could see your concern, but if you do things carefully/slowly, I don't think you'll have a problem
New User
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
Hello Everyone. Well I went 4X4 again and I was pulling my 2 quads with a loaded trailer of camping gear for 2 days and 6000 miles so far from putting in the new plugs I haven't had one blow or a tinking noise. I didn't retorque them but I guess I could check and see if they need them. I do need to pull my door panels of and get the sand out. I crossed a long wash and getting in and out of the truck put a lot of sand inside. The way I see it, is if it ain't knocking keep on truckin. I would like to get me a 2004 or newer F350 next to pull a toy hauler
Moderator
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 22,436
Likes: 17
From: Louisville,Ky.
Mine just turned 70,000 and no plug problems. I'll be changing them next weekend just to see how the look.
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New User
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
I've been thinkin of putting Flowmaster Exhaust on my truck. I haven't due to my girl friend hates that loud sound. I like the way it sounds so I will check into pricing around here. How much differance did your flowmaster Cat-back make towards horse power??
Moderator
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 22,436
Likes: 17
From: Louisville,Ky.
It's hard to say. I put it on right after I got the truck. I think the mileage went up about .5mpg with a little boost in power. It does sound good and it's not too loud. I have a 40 series with 3" inlet and dual 2.5" outlets exiting out the rear.
New User
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
I have had two plugs blow out one at 80,00 and the other at 120,000 on my 2002 f150harley davidson. I took the truck to ford and they offered to put a new motor in for $6,000 plus. They also said that they was aware of the promblem with the spark plugs ejecting. They said they would lower the cost on the engine $800.00. Has any body contacted the local news for help with this promblem about ford. Any body intersted in contacting fox 4 news in Dallas, Texas this week and explain to them the promblems you have had with this, they would love to hear your story
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2006
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Originally Posted by Mr. G
I have been debating if I should change mine on my 2000 4.6 with 45K. It is hard to decide if leaving them in for 7 years is worse than disturbing those 4 threads by changing them.
Remember, only a small percentage of trucks has the problem.
The majority of them don't ever eject a plug.
If I had the engine out, or the heads off, for some other reason, then I'd do it.
Freshman User
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
What exactly is happing when a plug get's blown out? Does the plug loosen up, then tear the few threads out as it is ejected? What is causing the ticking sound prior to the plug ejcetion?
Actually I think the plugs are easier to get to in a van than a truck. You can get to the front plugs thru the front and the rear ones by removing the motor cover.
Actually I think the plugs are easier to get to in a van than a truck. You can get to the front plugs thru the front and the rear ones by removing the motor cover.
Last edited by boomyal; May 24, 2007 at 04:51 PM.
Moderator
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 22,436
Likes: 17
From: Louisville,Ky.
Generally they blow from getting loose. The ticking sound is from exhaust leaking past the threads. Once it gets loose enough, the engine compression blows the plug out and pulls the threads with it.