Looking for some tips on changing coil over ignition and plug on '97 e-150 with ~150k miles. More than likely original damn plugs in it.

Recently the metal pipe that connects to the intake manifold spring a coolant leak on a trip. The whole was so close to the bottom that we could not get rubber + clamp over it to jury rig it to get home so we had an expensive repair at a dealer on the road. Long story short they had to pull the intake manifold to repair this.

Anyway after getting it back it starts to run rough, took about a week but finally got an error msg, cylinder #4 misfire, which is pretty much the closest cylinder to that spot (rear most on the passenger bank). Figure it is the COP so I was going to replace that but debating replacing the plug. I mean they are probably original but I just can not risk that plug breaking off in there right now. Should I just leave it till I can "afford" that risk and change just the COP. Or should I go for it...

Also recommendations on what plugs and COP to go with and a good source/price for those items would be appreciated. Thanks a bunch in advance.

Ken

 

I neglected to add it is the 5.4L Triton V8.

 

There are several suggestions as to the best procedure to remove the plugs.
One of them recommends placing a healthy dose of penetrating oil in the plug hole and letting it set overnight Then try to loosen the plug the next morning with the engine cold.
Others say engine warm , but not hot.
It might pay to get thread repair kit should you need it.
It is a tough decision for you to make I know. And,,,,, leaving it alone and just changing the coil is not a bad option for now.
Since you are or will be planning to change the plugs eventually get as much of the latest info you can so when you are ready you will be prepared .

 

A good source/price for picking up the coils. I have not had luck with google yielding a better price than the local autozone.

Ken

 

From my own experience I purchased my coils from Ford.
If you decide to do the same, the parts man should be able to tell you the latest plugs to use and what tools/kits are available to handle any problems. If you can't get satisfaction at one dealer go to a different one. They have a TSB on what to do if you have to do a thread repair job. Or you can try your favorite parts supplier , after that you should have plenty if info to get through it.

 

OK thanks, I keep hearing of people getting the coils for like $10 but more what I am finding is they are $40-$50. I had the local Ford dealer quote me $260 for replacing the coil and plug for just cylinder 4. At the same time I am seriously considering getting out of this van and picking up an older suburban, K-5 or possibly bronco instead. Kind of dumped a lot into this van recently and I don't see it ever coming back but I do see way more expenses in the future with it.

Ken