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2003 Ford F-150

Question: do the spark plugs break off during a tune-up?

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BigRed2003, 5.4L V8, Chambersburg, PA, October 21, 2011, 15:03
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 Rookie

I have heard that to change th plugs in my F-150 can cost as much as $2000. That seems really high to me.

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  • Answer #1

    ccsmog from Contra Costa Smog and Repair, October 21, 2011, 15:53
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     Journeyman

    The Ford engines have a Problem with spark plug threads being pulled out of the head while removing the spark plugs, Ford recomends replacing your spark plugs every 100,000 you in reality should replace them at 60,000. Reduces the chance of the plugs ruining your threads which require additional labor and thread repair kits as much as 125 per cylinder.

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    BigRed2003, October 21, 2011, 16:15
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     Rookie

    Thank you. i did not understand what part was breaking that would cost so much. Now that makes sense but seems like a stupid way for Ford t have built this.

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  • Medium-star Best Answer
    patrick mannion from Greg Solow's Engine Room, October 21, 2011, 18:39
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     Master

    Also use Permatex neversieze on the threads of the spark plug. If one does break there are special tools to re-thread the hole starting at the bottom thread in the head.

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  • Answer #3

    HarbroCarGuy from Harbro Auto Sales & Service, October 28, 2011, 11:55
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     Enthusiast

    This can be a tough job. Many ford technicians I know actually remove the cab of the truck so that they can have better access to the spark plugs. I would also recommend re-threading the spark plug holes (ford sells a kit - but its not cheap) because the engine in your truck is known to "spit plugs" - meaning: tear the threads out and fire a plug. this is no fun. Obviously I havent looked at your truck, but if the shop that gave you the estimate is one you trust, I dont doubt that the estimate can be that high. Ask them if they have done many. For your peace of mind, its NOT just a normal tune-up :)
    good luck

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