Things to look for...2006 E350

[thop154]

Going to go check out a 2006 E350 this week. Lifted with Camburg suspension, upgraded ball joints and steering box. Van was built as a chase van for Baja. It has the 5.4 gas motor, anything in particular to look for when going through it? Has 130,000 miles. Well kept it looks like, but I don't know too much about these motors. More familiar with the older 5.0 and 5.8, as well as the diesel Ford's. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated. Cheers.

 

[mgmetalworks]

Ask if they replaced the spark plugs with the type that don't break into pieces in the head.

I've done the broken plug change thing with the use of a special tool (purchased on Amazon) and accessibility wasn't bad on an F-series truck but probably wouldn't be fun on a van. 6 of the 8 plugs on the truck I worked on broke off upon attempted removal. At least I can vouch for how well the tool worked.

 

[thop154]

Thanks mgmetalworks. I asked him about that, and he said he knew what I was talking about, and that he hasn't had an issue with them. I know the early 5.4's had issues with the plugs, but this is a 2006, any chance Ford ould have fixed them since the early ones I wonder? Anyways, thanks for the advice. If he hasn't changed them out, I'm thinking that I would do that first thing, if I get the van.

 

[mgmetalworks]

The truck I worked on was a 2008... I think the plugs were redesigned around the end of that model year. Some people have all kinds of problems getting those out but I didn't have issues with the tool, it worked perfectly (provided you follow the instructions). http://www.amazon.com/Lisle-LIS65600-Broken-Remover-Engines/dp/B00267PZUK

I also got the socket...it was worth it.

http://www.amazon.com/OTC-6900-F-150-Spark-Socket/dp/B000NBVFN2/ref=pd_bxgy_263_img_y

 

[tookstar154]

Awesome. Thanks