Retired, first time buyer

GMandJM wrote:
Good to know, Ol Yeller.

The thing I was referring to was an issue with the CPS due to a split-pin crank shaft. Tried to find out more about it, but ...

So the 2004 that Gene is looking at wouldn't have the "too few threads on the head" issue?

There's another thread that indicated that changing the OEM spark plugs on a E450 V10 isn't a recommendation until 100,000 miles, anyway, and that the plug spitting issue was aftermarket plugs which were likely mis-installed. Any information/opinion on that?

By 2004, Ford corrected the issue with the spark plug threads on the V10. It was an issue for some folks (with ones made prior to 2001) when these were newer and some did blow their plugs out. Now that they are at least 13-14 years old, I would think that if the plugs were poorly installed from the factory, they would have blown out by now. There is a very detailed procedure to replace spark plugs on the early V10 and if it isn't followed you could blow a plug. Also there are fewer issues using Motorcraft plugs than other aftermarket ones.

Ford recommends a plug change at 100K miles. On a Ford truck enthusiast's website I frequent common opinion is that it much better to change the plugs around 60-75K. There is less likehood of pulling out the threads after the head and plug become one after 100K miles being dissimilar metals. That timeframe also gives you opportunity to check and replace the plug boots which become brittle and/or cracked. This allows water to stay around the COP which will destroy it. Boots are cheap and easy to replace. I liked the logic so I replaced the plugs on my '99 V10 at 75K.

Oops, I almost forgot, congrats on your new rig. Now outfit that puppy and go camping!