My 05 F250 has 114K miles on it. Still has the original plugs, and wanted to do a tune up on it. I have read and heard that its easy to break the plugs off in the head on these motors when changing them. I have changed plugs in many vehicles in the past. Is this a job that an average guy can do?

 

Yes. It isn't any more involved than changing the spark plugs on a 350 Chevrolet, but different.

The key here is to follow the procedures, to the letter. Do a Google search on this procedure. It basically involves first soaking the plugs with thread penetrating oil, procedures for what to do if this fails, procedures for what to do (and what tool to use) if you break the plug (which is the real danger in the 3V engines), what anti-seize compound to use and how hard to torque down the new plugs (very very lightly).

I know Champion has a newer 1 piece spark plug design for modular engines that doesn't break in the head like the stock plugs, and I think I remember reading Autolite now has a new 1 piece design, although I could be wrong on that. Wouldn't be the first time.

 

It's not your typical plug change. Having the plugs in that long you are at a very good chance at breaking 1 or more. There is a TSB from Ford on how to do this procedure but if you break one you need to get a hold of the special tools to remove them.

There are preliminary procedures you can do to minimize the problem but again it is not a simple job.
I chose ford to do it and they broke 2 plugs at 60k when i had them changed.
below is a link to one of my posts on the subject.

If you choose to do it yourself, read-up and spend time investigating the procedures others have done. There are many posts on the subject.
Good luck

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...ry-or-not.html

 

Here is a link to the Ford TSB.

http://www.etoolcart.com/06152.pdf

 

The latest TSB for 3 valve plug removal is 08-7-6. I've lost my link to a site that had all pages. You should be able to search for it on this site or if you don't have any luck search over on F150online. I've posted it there a few times and probably here too.

There are folks that have had good luck using 3/8 electric, possibly cordless not entirely sure, impacts vs following the TSB. Some of these folks are current or former Ford Tech's. I would recommend doing some homework on that topic before taking the plunge. Also, if you choose to go the TSB route hit up the dealer for the carb tune up cleaner that's used to soften the carbon. Plus get yourself a Lisle 65600 Broken Plug Extration Tool. It seems to be the best on the market and it's under 100 bucks. Next depending on the method of removal you select, give yourself a weekend to get the job done. Slow and patient is a key to being successful. Also, get yourself a bottle of hi temp, Nickel based anti-seize, this will be applied to the tube that extends thru the head into the cylinder, not the threads, as per the TSB. (this is supposed to make it so the replacement plugs can be removed without breakage, but folks are finding this isn't the case). Last, do some homework regarding the plugs you will put in. Some like the more robust design of the Champions and others like the Motorcraft. It's a topic that carries some very strong opinions.

I did my plugs at 65K on my F150. I followed the TSB but broke 3 plugs. I have a Matco Tools extraction tool, which does not include the porcelin pusher that the Lisle does. While it took me longer to finish the job because I had to come up with a method to push the porcelin down, I was still successful.

Brokensparkplug.com This site shows the 3 common types of broken plugs on our 3 valve motors. It's always possible you may have one that doesn't break in a way that allows for use of the extraction tool. It's possible, but very unlikely. If it does happen, it's head removal time.

Hope this helps.

 

I've read several posts where guys ran a tank or two of fuel with marvels mystery oil added prior to the plug change. They said they think it helped but who knows. One would think it may provide some lubricity to the long collar on the plug.

 

i have done plug chamges on every ford i have owned...some were 2 valve...and some were 3 valve. I followed the procedure listed on the FTE site exactly. I NEVER had one break, crack, or not come out. Use deep creep penetrate oil and take your time. it can be done with patience and following the steps. just search for the written procedure...good luck. better than paying ther dealership and you will feel good accomplishing this task...

 

The question is, how lucky are you ? The Ford TSB is not 100%. It's more like 50/50. I have removed over a 100 broken plugs from 3 valve engines. Some with over 150,000 miles some with less than 30,000 miles. Nothing works 100% of the time. Sometimes you get lucky and don't break any. Sometimes you take all the precautions and break 5 or 6. It is not the end of the world if you do break one. If you spend the money on the tool the average do it yourselfer can do it.

 

I dont feel im extremely lucky...i understand the tsb isnt 100%, but taking your time and being very careful can prove very positive. i was just trying to state the fact it can be done by the average garage tree mechanic.

 

I too have the 5.4L Last sparkplug change I did i was lucky enough to not break any plugs. However It was very easy for me to strip out 2 of the threads in the head. I had to have a mechanic helix coil them to fix.

 

How many miles did you have on your 3V when you did it?

 

going to order the lisle kit and install plugs in the next week or so. Found the motorcraft plugs for $8.92 at https://www.bowenscarff-fordparts.co...s_catalog.html

Should I use motorcraft carb cleaner or Aerokroil for the penetrating oil?