Ford F150 - Any years, models, engines to avoid?

[Henry Schmidt]

Originally Posted by red-beard

Thanks for the replys. I expect it will be 2004 or later model. Most of the ones I've looked at were the 5.4 liter. Good to know about the plugs, I'll make sure that they are changed first thing and have anti-sieze installed on them.

I expect it will be 2004 or later model.

Originally Posted by chapo

Now Henry, you know how JD Power operates right? Ask anyone in the business. Much like the BBB spend money with us or else. BTW the data is from 07.

Of course I understand the car business and I also know these trucks.
Are you doubting the results of their survey?

I know a few Ford people how now drive Toyotas and zero that went the other way.
This started out as light humor and seems to have transformed to a pissing contest so I've said my peace.
Cheers

[chapo]

Still light here, how about there? Our 2006 F150 tows our 20 ft enclosed no problem, complete with an early 911 race car with a few Schmidt products installed. Toyota buddies seem to have brake and (gasp) head gasket issues. Toyota, king of the silent recall, mentions none of this.

[daepp]

Henry - you aren't "starting anything." In fact, it is all I can do (generally) to not just knee-jerk support Toyota (I am on my second Lexus - gasp!) I just figure you're speaking from experience.

I have never owned a Toyota truck. However, in the late 70's/early 80's, the Toyota 4X4 was the truck to have. And cruising in the so-called mini-trucks; OMG...

That said, and knowing yours and my good experiences with Toyotas, the F-150 is tough to beat. But of course, YMMV.

[chapo]

earlier 4x4 toyota 4 bangers were tough to beat, or kill for that matter.

[Henry Schmidt]

David
Enough about trucks.
You should stop by and see my new project. I can't believe I'm building another 911.
69 911T R Gruppe candidate. Twin plug 2.45 engine.

[aigel]

How long are you planning on keeping it? If you expect to do any maintenance or serious repair on it, I would reconsider the Ford route ...

The maintenance on the "modular engine" trucks is not a lot of fun. The engines are set back far into the dash / under the windshield and access to spark plugs or to do any major enigne work is terrible.

I had a 97 F150 that served us well but blew a head gasket (4.6) at 200k. It took me 25 hours to repair this and the job sucked. At the dealer for head or engine removal, the cab is lifted off the frame. I also repaired a heater core on same truck and it took a whole day - the entire dash had to come out.

I had to buy an SUV recently and decided against the Ford because of this engine compartment access issue. I went with a first gen Seqoia - very old school lay out with the engine in the middle of the engine compartment, accessible from all sides. 20 minutes to do plugs ...

I recommend you look at a first gen Tundra with the 4.7. My only complaint is the timing belt vs. chain. The interior, accessories, safety equipment are far superior in the Toyota. You will pay more for the Toyota but you will recover most if not all of that premium when you resell.

George

First gen Sequoia (Tundra will be same)


2007 F150

2007 Ford F150 King Ranch engine bay

[red-beard]

The Tundra is too light. It will not work for the application...

[Henry Schmidt]

Originally Posted by red-beard

The Tundra is too light. It will not work for the application...

and there you have it. Tundra is out. Sorry for adding it o the conversation.

[billybek]

[QUOTE=aigel;5517783]The engines are set back far into the dash / under the windshield and access to spark plugs or to do any major enigne work is terrible.
George
That is exactly why I bought a GMC 3/4 instead of the Ford Gas 3/4 ton.
I can see every plug on the 6 liter engine and maintenance is much easier for the most part.
Now reliability, lets just say that for such a low mileage truck, it hasn't been really reliable. OTOH it is the first GM product that has let me down in this way.

[daepp]

OMG - Porsche Pron - I must resist...

[aigel]

R-B:

Well, back to the F150 then, there are no engines to avoid on the V8. The old 6 cylinder was the only one they had issues with.

You should do a bit of reading here Ford Truck Enthusiasts, 1948-2011 Ford F150, Super Duty & SUV owners community and information source. Covers F100, F-150, F250, Bronco, Ranger, Explorer, Expedition, Lighting, Escape and More - and possibly ask there too what people recommend. It is a very good board considering how large it is. There are a few dealership techs posting on there - amazing (wouldn't you want to turn it off when you come home?)

George

[Laneco]

Hey - have you guys seen the new Raptor? Now THAT is a badass!!!!

angela

[peppy]

My wife has an 07 F150. Only drawback with hers is the towing capacity is about 5500 lbs.

Just don't get the 20" wheels.

[A930Rocket]

I want to say my 01 2WD SuperCrew has a towing capacity of 7500 lbs with the 5.4. As for changing the plugs, it's not that bad. Having the right tools makes all the difference. I had to change a leaking valve cover gasket at about 150k and it took about 5-6 hours with no air tools and in the driveway.

[aigel]

Originally Posted by A930Rocket

I want to say my 01 2WD SuperCrew has a towing capacity of 7500 lbs with the 5.4. As for changing the plugs, it's not that bad. Having the right tools makes all the difference. I had to change a leaking valve cover gasket at about 150k and it took about 5-6 hours with no air tools and in the driveway.

I have wrenched for a long time and know what a PITA job is. I have all the right tools, swivel sockets long extensions and what not. I remember cut up arms and sore back from leaning over into that hell hole of an engine compartment ...

George

[aigel]

Originally Posted by Laneco

Hey - have you guys seen the new Raptor? Now THAT is a badass!!!!

angela

I love it too! A bit steep at 40k+. No stick available though - WTF?

George

[A930Rocket]

If it wasn't for the COPS and fuel rails, it would be a lot easier, but I hear ya.

I have wrenched for a long time and know what a PITA job is. I have all the right tools, swivel sockets long extensions and what not. I remember cut up arms and sore back from leaning over into that hell hole of an engine compartment ...



George