re: Paging F150 Mechanics - Update in Original post.

A lot of the actuator problems are actually vacuum leaks some where When they loose vacuum they fault to engage mode. Sometimes a smaller vacuum leak manifests itself by causing a clicking noise in the hub area, especially under acceleration when the manifold vacuum naturally declines.

I still have my 2000 F-150. Got 249,000 out of the first engine. Had another engine set in for right under $3000 (towing included). They put a three year 100,000 warranty on it. Sonofabitch runs like a beast. Everything else still works good.

Timing chains have never been a problem on the 5.4's. The plastic tensioner guides wear due to poor OCI's and maintenance practices. 400k out of a 5.4L is easy. A known fix to the tensioner guides is to polish the outside edge of the chain but it is a tedious process. Ford did this to the chains used on the SVT program vehicles.

Thanks for the Replies, I'm going to take it in this afternoon anyway. Had to have the wiring harness for the alternator and electronic assisted power steering replaced a couple of weeks ago. (it came loose and rubbed a hole in the insulation) They also found an oil leak but couldn't locate it so they added dye to my oil to try and locate it. I'll have them check the drive train over and see if they can find it.

I've had wheel bearing issues before and really don't think that's it. The sound is not constant like a wheel bearing would be. I'm really hoping this is not the beginning of constant issues with this truck. I'm supposed to be driving this thing to NM in about 4 weeks. Would like to get all this taken care of beforehand.

quote:

---

The sound is not constant like a wheel bearing would be

---

The actuators in the hubs will make a clicking sound that changes with vehicle speed and throttle position because of the vacuum used.

quote:

---

WTF does that have to do with this thread?

---

Simply speaking to the resiliency of the older Fords. Granted, you have to take care of them, but those older Fords are good vehicles.

quote:

---

There was absolutely nothing good about the 5.4
I speak from experience

---

Are you talking about the 2v or 3v?

UPDATE: Truck is still at the dealership. They can't tell exactly where my oil leak is coming from so they haven't even started looking at the noise from the front end. Will update again when I get some more info.