I am going to replace my spark plugs on my 02 5.4L with 80k. What kind of spark plugs should I go with and where is the best place to get them. Also, is there anything I should be aware of when changing them? Thanks.

 

When I did mine I used good ole motorcraft.It is not hard to do.Just make sure you have an assortment of extensions/knuckles to get in there.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/article/...ter_F150s.html

 

I was wondering the same thing, anyone try iridium?

 

Use exactly what Ford says to use. Motorcraft. Autolite works too, as they are the same thing.

I've read of too many issues with other brand spark plugs on Ford modulars. People running around changing ever darn sensor because they just changed the plugs and get a misfire. Only to find, putting Motorcrafts back in made it go away.

I wouldn't even bother using anything besides the "regular" platinums. For Motorcrafts, a double platinum has a platinum tip on both electrodes - the one in the center, and the "wire".

We've gone through plug changes in the V10 forum, and it's amazing to see how worn the center electrode is ... while the "wire" is hardly worn at all. So, a double platinum is almost worthless. Not entirely worthless, but not worth the extra money...

But definitely, use Motorcraft.

 

Change them with the engine cold (let it sit overnight). You will strip the threads in an aluminum head the quickest if you change them with the engine still warm.

Use a torque wrench when putting new spark plugs back in. I think you want 15 ft/lbs, but double check in a Haynes or other shop manual.

And get the KD Tools 3 pc. 5/8 in. Extended Universal Spark Plug Socket Set (Mfr. model #KDS41740). Works great. Magnet in socket holds plug in while placing new plug in engine. 3 different size extensions for hard to get to areas. Sockets wont come off extensions.

http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/produ...seBVCookie=Yes

 

It's about 14 ft/lbs.

Better off with an inch pound torque wrench and use 160-168 in/lbs for final torque.

 

For the last 2k miles. I am tickled, not sure if my 65k plugs were just that bad or if the densos are just that good. Better mileage, smoother idle, and more responsive.

 

Denso Iridiums, exactly what I was looking at, what did you gap them?

 

Ditto the proper torque. I had a plug blow itself right out of the head a few thouseand miles ago. I hadn't changed the plugs but my mech said these 5.4's can do that if things aren't perfect.

 

I left them at the factory gap, 0.040. They have a grooved ground electrode, so it creates a little extra space. They all measured the same so I was content to leave them.