What Kind Of Problems You Can See with the Ford 5.4 Triton Engine

If you are still a fan of a Ford 5.4 Triton Engine, then you must keep in mind this is not a perfect unit. Well, none is. But recently, we can hear more and more complains about the famous Triton drivetrain. Definitely, power and durability are advantages, but it still depends on which model you want. Transmission plays a major role in power distribution. The most famous vehicle that used this engine was Ford F-150 truck in its eleventh generation. Now, the drivetrain is discontinued and there are no details if the unit could come back.

So, let’s go through specs of the Ford 5.4 Triton engine before we see the problems it causes. The V8 unit appeared for the first time in 1997. Modular mill replaced a 5.8-liter engine. Depending on usage, the Triton powertrain can deliver 300-550 horsepower. We are talking about the 4-valve model, the most recent editions. Before that, Ford was using 2- and 3-valve systems. The last one was a part of F-150 lineup with outputs of 300 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque.

Main Problem – Spark Plugs

We are listing this one as No1 problem because of many reasons. First of all, blows of the spark plugs became almost a common problem. But, it is not all about plugs, but the damage it causes. Treading of the head takes first hits. Later, it causes problems with ignition. As reported, the most common blown happens on the third and fourth cylinder. The solution was not cheap – to replace the entire engine head. Another possibility is to install an aftermarket system. But, what about reasons? Experts say the number of treads in the head of the spark plug is not enough.

Replacing Spark Plugs

Ok. So, your spark plug blew. What’s next? You need to replace it. There we will find the next problem of the Ford 5.4 Triton engine. Park plug was secured excellent in its housing. So secure, it is very hard to remove it. If you push too hard, the plug would snap. Again, this is not the only difficulty you can face. Fragments can find the way to engine cylinders.

Fuel Pump Failures

After spark plugs, fuel pumps are causing the most headaches for owners of vehicles with Ford 5.4 Triton engine. Well, this part is more expensive. Corrosion is the main reasons leading to failures. Also, some of the other parts could corrode because of that. How to make sure your F-150 truck or Mustang works fine? Check out the engine room frequently. At first signs of corrosion repair or replace modules.

Ford 5.4 Triton Engine Consumes Too Much Fuel

Well, high outputs are usually causing more consumption. The problem is that advertised MPG rating is not close to the real-world fuel economy. Well, to get the best mileage from the Ford 5.4 Triton engine you must keep it clean. Frequent maintenance will help a lot. However, during age, the engine will consume more gasoline. Also, there are many other aspects that will make the F-150 truck consume more than 140 mpg.

What if Ford 5.4 Triton Engine Becomes Loud?

There are various other issues that will make Ford 5.4 Triton engine sounds strange. Startup at cold weather and knocks during acceleration are not nice to hear. These are tensioners that should be checked. Also, the noise could come from timing chain or VVT system. Cam phasers replacement could fix the problem. You must keep the mind on all these parts. If either of them blows, it can cause the domino effect and damage all others. In this case, the replacement will cost hefty.

Especially cam phaser is failing pretty often. Yes, it boosts fuel economy and power output, but this problem is serious. When you hear strange noises pointing the cam phaser could have issues, you will probably have to replace the entire engine.

SOLUTIONS

Ford admitted there are problems in various areas of its 5.4 Triton engine. However, they offered solutions for some of them. For example, Lock-N-Stitch thread for spark plugs. Also, we can hear recommendations to use a HeliCoil kit. Two-Piece spark plugs are also a possibility. This will reduce the chance of breaking plugs while replacing them.