Time to change plugs as I had the #1 plug fail, bought in an emergency an Autolite Double Platinum, looks like a much better plug than the Motor Craft, looks to be Platinum Plated all over. Anyone have experiance with this plug? Also are you guys replacing the boots, and springs? I know to blow the plug holes out, will even use a magnet on the socket, to catch any rust. Soak the plug, before removal. (didn't on #1 and it was scary getting it out.) Diaelectric grease on the boots, never-siez on the plug threads.

4.6 L, 2001, S'crew, 2wd

 

I just used the Motorcraft direct replacements on my 01 5.4L.
Either will work fine.
I didn't soak any of my plugs. Just make sure the engine is cold.
Inspect the boots and springs. Mine were fine so I reused them with a dose of dielectric grease. Anit-sieze on the threads.

 

"Double Platinum" means both electrodes are tipped with platinum.

They are not plated with platinum, a small piece of platinum is welded onto the end of the electrodes. I suspect what you are seeing is zinc plating (galvanized) on the rest of the plug.

With a "regular" platinum, just the one center electrode is tipped with platinum.