What damage is this pic showing?

[Number4]

So I can pick up this '03 Mountaineer Premier 4.6l with 184k for $700.

I don't need it, but I could use its front end, or use my other '03 for parts.

Guy says it has a head issue. In this first pic, it appears we are looking at the spark plug hole for #3 . It looks like the hole isn't centered? What do you see?

 

[Number4]

Can't post multiple pics in one post due to how they are named, just a closer look. Both pics taken from CL.

Looks like part of the coil is still mounted to the intake.
Supposedly the engine runs fine.

 

[TechGuru]

4.6L? Probably has a broken off spark plug.

 

[boominXplorer]

Stripped out spark plug threads and the plug shot out. They make a repair kit for around $70 that puts in an insert and uses a 3v plug. Just did 1 the other day on an F150 with good results.

 

[Number4]

Didn't think the Explorer '02-'05's had the plug issue.

Doesn't it look like the spark plug tube is broken? Not connected to the head? Is this even possible?

 

[boominXplorer]

2v 4.6 and 5.4 only have 4 threads in the head to hold the spark plug. When over torqued they will pull the treads right out of the head and shoot the plug out.

3v 4.5 and 5.4 use the long electrode tip and they like to stay stuck in the head and brake off

 

[rocco123]

Repaired my #3 with $20 Dorman repair 3 years ago and it's still in and still holds compression.

 

[Number4]

Looks like it's a stripped spark plug issue. After prodding for more info, here's the response.

"No sir it's in good condition the grooves on the head are worn out so the plug won't stay.... I got the spark plug all u need is the i.c to put in there."
[MENTION=8968]rocco123[/MENTION], you have the Dorman part number?

My wife will kill me if I bring this home......

 

[rocco123]

Dorman part number 42025. Spark plug thread repair kit. Used it on my 4.6 and installed 4/14/2013. Comes with a longer plug for the adapter you put in. Adapter cuts it's own threads. Blew #3 on way home from Pittsburgh and they usually take out the coil when they blow. After getting home I found it wasn't fully seated, so I removed the adapter, and filed down the corners of the adapter so it would fit fully into the head and used loc-tite. Like I said, no problem since. I keep a spare in the explorer in case it happens again. Cheapest price is ebay from a quick search

 

[rocco123]

Dorman states 42025 it's not for 4.6 but I'm telling ya it works. They told me straight up that their replacement manifold wouldn't fit my explorer and I had no problem putting it on.

 

[BarryCarey]

Process to fix it here: