Is the 2007 5.4L an interference engine

2007 FORD F-150
130,000 MILES • 5.4L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
MIDEERHUNTER
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
was told that the tensionors got loose and it's caused timing to be off. Is the 2007 5.4L still an "interference engine" and therefore has it caused valve damage in the short amount of time it was driven?
Jun 23, 2019 at 9:06 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Advertisement
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 52,796 POSTS
Good afternoon,

Yes, both the 2 valves and the 3 valves are interference engines.

Caution: Timing chain procedures must be followed exactly or damage to valves and pistons will result.

Roy
Jun 23, 2019 at 10:37 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
SCGRANTURISMO
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 4,897 POSTS
Hello,

Unfortunately, yes, the 5.4L and 4.6L Ford engines are interference engines. You can usually be a tooth or two off, but anything more than that will cause valve damage or damage to your vehicle's valvetrain. Please let us know what you find out.

Thanks,
Alex
2CarPros
Jun 23, 2019 at 10:39 AM
Avatar
BMDOUBLE
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 1,139 POSTS
Usually bad tensioners will not cause timing to be off enough to cause damage, just noisy in start up. I’m assuming it’s running? If timing is off there will be associated trouble codes, if it’s off that is.
Jun 24, 2019 at 6:47 PM
Avatar
MIDEERHUNTER
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
it's my neighbors truck; yes it is running but he parked it as he was told that it was the tensioners. I am contemplating buying it off of him but didn't want to put $3,000.00 into it!
Jun 28, 2019 at 6:30 AM
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 52,796 POSTS
If it is a 3 valve, I would pass. They have issues with the chains and the VVT phasers that require the engine to be replaced.

Roy
Jun 28, 2019 at 8:08 AM