should i put new cam phasers in my 07 f150 5.4l v8 or buy a newer truck
A lot depends on how good the rest of the truck is, but be aware that there are folks who REALLY have a low opinion of the 5.4 3 valve. Like this guy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcN_WcGr4BU
@glen_stet
the rest of the truck in great contition
@glen_stet
he is a friend of mine
That engine has a terrible reputation and even if you spend big money people will resist buying your truck used because of the known engine issues. So i would buy something newer with a better reputation. Tundra or tacoma would be much better choices. Or even a highlander if that works for you.
A big problem with the 5.4 is they don't get enough volume of oil into the upper part of the engine. Once they start sounding like a diesel, all the damage is done.
Melling makes a aftermarket high volume oil pump. It only helps if you install it before damage is done or at a complete rebuild.
Locked in-place phasers are available and require a ECM software upgrade.
Ford ignition coils and plug holes on that engine are a pain in the ass. That is what the guys are talking about. I have a 4.6 with similar issues but it does run good after buying aftermarket coils and emptying the failed catalytic converters.
If the truck is in good shape then replace the part and keep driving it. Those engines will last a long time and many miles if the plug holes are not damaged or fixed and the factory coils made by nippon-denso are replaced with something good. Yes the japanese made the coils and they are crap.
Tundras are a decent truck but have their BS problems. Expensive to buy and expensive to fix. Bloody expensive.
The F150 with the 5.0 coyote is very trouble free. And one thing I like about domestic vehicles is the common availability of parts in large quantities. I have a toyota which I like and a nissan which I like. I have had many rice burners. Bottom fact is when you fix them the foreign ones are very dear on $ per part. You decide.
With things like the starter below the intake manifold and the water running backwards through the engines in toyota trucks, you might take on some new nightmares acquiring one of them. Word to the wise. They are reliable but then again so is my E250 van. Very reliable. The ford is just less expensive to fix.
