What should I know about doing a 100,000 mile service?

[resq302]

Well folks, my wifes 2005 Explorer Limited 4x4 V-8 has now hit 100,000 miles. These are the items I am planning on changing out.
-all fluids (trans with filter change, transfer case, front and rear axles, power steering, flushing brake fluid, and coolant)
-replacing all 4 of the struts
-spark plugs (4.6 V-8 engine) reinstalling OE platinums
-cleaning the K&N air filter
-fuel filter

I have heard some issues with the 4.6l engines stripping out the threads in the head. Any tips or tricks as my wife uses this daily driver to take our 2 daughters to day care so I really can't have any problems with doing this.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Brian

 

[jrford]

I have heard some issues with the 4.6l engines stripping out the threads in the head. Brian

For the plugs its my understanding that they added steel inserts in '03-04 time frame therefore i'm inclined to think its no longer a problem. There was a thread that talked further, something about '4.6 spiting plugs' or such, i think his was an '02.

other tips, blow out with compressed air before removal. Use PB blaster or something similar a day before but that means you have to take the coils off twice. I'd just give it a go and if seized hit it with PB, put it back, try again in 1-2days.

That would be my list, brake and steering fluid i might be tempted to skip, imo.

 

[esclamada]

I've compiled my 100k maintenance on facebook,

http://www.facebook.com/pages/DIY-2...ry-Mountaineer-100K/110528882348605?sk=photos

 

[resq302]

wow, fantastic info there. thanks for posting that!

 

[EasyRhino]

When pulling the plugs from an aluminum head, be certain that the engine is 'overnight cold' before you go to pull them. I let mine sit overnight with a teaspoon of penetrating fluid poured into each boss to work overnight (after using compressed air to blow out any trash first).

Do not use anti-seize on the new plugs, contrary to popular opinion, and when installing the new ones:

Use a short piece of rubber tubing initially to catch the plug's threads in the boss. Just stick the plug into the tubing and use the tubing as the installation tool. That way you will be certain not to cross thread them.

Then use a torque wrench to seat them, applying 13-15 ft-lbf and no more.