Whats wrong with my truck?

[FirstFord]

Well the old X has got a few problems. Well first while driving i get a horrible burning oil smell, and between oil changes i use about 2 quarts of oil. Second its got a horrible consistant ping right under 2 grand, recent tune-up, K&N filter, still no help, i am currently running 89 octane, tried several differant stations, no help. Lastly i get horrible fuel milage, about 200 miles to a tank. Any help would be apreciated.

 

[Howard]

Yoy have either got a bad oil leak or you are burning via the re-curulator system. Intake manifold leaks or vacuum leaks can lead to pinging and general poor running. Any codes in the computer?

 

[X~FACTOR]

If you got pinging, running 87 octane isn't recommendable. Try 92 premium and see if it goes away and keep using it until you found the fix to your engine trouble.

 

[FirstFord]

havn't checked for codes, but im not getting any check engine lights, or any other lights, i know this is pretty meaning less tho.

 

[SteveVB]

Sounds like your lower intake gasket is leaking. retorque the bolts, and replace the gasket (use the Ford part)

 

[FirstFord]

any tips on re-torquing the manifold, i have heard its a real pain., also i have heard this may be the reason for the oil leak??

 

[SteveVB]

Yep its the cause of the leak, and the pinging- oil into the combustion chamber. You will need to pull the manifold and clean the manifold and as m,uch of the intake port as possible.

You could check by pulling the plugs- Ill bet they have some decent oil deposits on them.

If you can use tools its not too bad, just takes time. You could take it in and get it done- probably wouldnt cost more than $500.

If you replace the gasket get the OEM Ford gasket. Worth the $

 

[FirstFord]

I should be able to use tools, just never had to use them so frequently, than on this X.

 

[MustangShane]

So I take it this is a pretty common problem on these trucks. But couldn't a stuck EGR valve also cuase the pinging and poor gas mileage?

 

[Howard]

yes it could test it.

 

[Fhantazm]

I got my lower intake manifold gasket, as well as my valve cover gaskets (reccommended at manifold gasket change) changed for $165 parts and labor. Find a local mechanic, they are MUCH cheaper then the dealership and the higher end shops.

 

[FirstFord]

for $165 i'd consider having it done, im going to look into the pricing locally.