highdesertranger said:
97 to 08 Ford vans/truck have a defect in the cylinder head design. many blow the spark plugs right out of the head when the engine is running, on others the spark plug breaks off when trying to change them. highdesertranger
Yeah I've heard of the issue, with it also happening to a 2001 Mazda Tribute (Ford escape) I owned.
At the time it happened, my mechanic had a Honda in his shop that had the same issue.
Higher compressions and aluminum heads...it can happen to any engine.
While it has been reported, it's not the kiss of death when it does nor is it a guarantee it will happen.
Looking at the actual numbers of reports and the fact that NHTSA didn't step in, I would say it's a defect only slightly above, maybe even on par with other known mechanical issues that plague all brands.
Also, although the highest concentration seems to be 1997-2003 F-150's, E-150's seem to be lumped in, despite the fact they use different heads and the issues with plugs are different.
Chevy had issues with fuel pumps about the same years, Dodge vans of the same years have reports of catastrophic engine failures at double or triple the rate of spark plug failures on E-150's. Yeah things happen, but the rates of failures are what is key. When defects get reported and lumped together, they seem worse than they actually are.
I wouldn't let the spark plug issue deter me from considering a Ford in the least.
And just because I chose a Ford for my build, it was not out of any brand loyalty.
If it had been a Chevy or Dodge of similar cost, mileage, history and overall condition I would have jumped on it just as willingly.
Whichever fits your needs and budget and is reasonably mechanically sound and maintained, go for it.