[mark v]

Planning on making this a sticky for future reference. What Fords blow out plugs?

I want to know......

What engines?
What years?
What makes?

Also what Fords have the plug that snaps in half when removing and what plug should it be replaced with?

After this is all done I will make 1 sticky with all the info for all to use.

Thanks to all that help contribute to this forum!

[Graybeard]

Our '97 E-350 with 5.4 blew out at least #5 &#6 a few years back, and they were fixed with the Sav-a-thread kit that tapped the holes out to about 17mm. #6 blew again recently, and took the hole out even bigger. The next size I could find for the job was 1/2" pipe. It took a long time to ream the hole and tap it, and I was afraid of hitting a valve seat, so I didn't go as deep as normal, and trimmed the o.d. of the reducer.

Lest you think it nuts to use a pipe thread for a spark plug, 15 million Model T were built with 1/2" pipe thread sparkplugs. I used a reducer that is sold by Model T aftermarket vendors for running modern plugs.

[Pecos Slick]

I would never have thought of doing that!

[dyngrngalaxie]

Originally Posted by Pecos Slick

I would never have thought of doing that!

I've had an 03 Crown Vic going into 7 years, changed plugs twice. History is key on older vehicle. 3- 4 yrs old, high time to change plugs. Engine must be overnight cold!!! with aluminum heads or you'll tear out threads. Last change, 2 yrs ago, plan on doing them again soon. So far, so good.
Blow out wells with compressed air. Liberal dose of penetrating oil, let sit for a bit, break them loose and more penetrating oil. Anti seize compound a must on aluminum heads, copper type preferable. Mechanic friend had to walk away from plugs on 4 yr old F150 5.4 with about 180,000 km. Hopes like heck it keeps running because several WOULDN'T come out. If you get one that's been properly maintained, likely ok. If threads fouled up or plugs not changed in eons, your probably in for a world of hurt. Other friends have had 2 Marquis / crown vics. Seem to keep running, but heaven help them if they do finally have to change plugs now!

[dyngrngalaxie]

By the way, How do we ever thank the industry for junk like aluminum heads??? Also - further to previous, proper torque also very important on plugs. If you can keep spark plugs holes intact, at least Ford's are not generally noted for blowing head gaskets at relatively low mileage like some!

[mark v]

Aluminum heads are great, they just need to be made correctly.