Starting hot shot trucking with half ton ford f150

the spark plugs never shot out of the head.
The broke off inside the head. Use to be you had to remove the head to fix that issue, which is a huge pain.
but they have a tool to get them out now for several years and a process to keep it from happening. still a pain and not one if I’d like to repeat.
My first exposure cost the customer $1500 to fix. Last I heard he was still fighting Ford to get his money back

 

Both happened.
I just went and did a simple google search for the years...
The Ford Triton (5.4l) 1997-2003 had a problem with spark plugs ejecting from the head.
2004-2010 had the problem of them welding themselves in and breaking off.

If you don't believe me, do a simple google search. The proof is all over the place....

 

For one, they were never “welded” in the head.
The problem was the metal in the head as opposed to the metal of the plug, coupled with the fact that there were only 4 threads in to the head. On top of that, the new spark plug design caused the separation of the plug when trying to remove it, hence where the removal tool came in to play.
As for leaving the head, I did read that, but never experienced it. It looks like the aluminum threaded area of the head caused it to separate, then the piston hit the top of the stroke and compression caused the plug to leave its designated parking spot.

 

I've read through quite a few posts on your topic and some of the replies have been border-line disrespect but i guess thats how some opinions are... nevertheless,for the last 8 months,I've watched a father/son duo hauling goosenecks to and from the airport near my work,at least 3 times per week. The Dad is in a older '89-'99 C/K 1500,v-6 swb,pulling a 20' sometimes with crates 6ft.high. The son has a 2012-up F-350 powerstroke pulling a 35' sometimes with a forklift. Neither seems to miss a beat! I'm actually thinking of using my '06 f-150 4.6 and either a 18' bumper pull or a 20 'goose to get started on some weekend "shotting".For me,start up money is an issue,but also diesel maintenance! I'm pretty confident in my mechanical with a gas-burner and,I already own it. I know my truck is at least the equal of that C/K,as I've owned GM's close to it and we had a 350 one for years. Do you and school some of us on how it works,I'll do the same.

 

Doing a few local loads per week vs. doing cross country trips is an entirely different thing.

 

I think your best bet is to talk to the guys who are right in front of you. The father and son team. Like longhaultransport, cross country is a different animal.

 

Not a trucker but been running construction service fleets for years. 1/2 ton trucks are good for carrying your hand tools and lunch pail. The first time you start carrying + #500 in materials you will learn about replacing brakes, start running a # 1000 or more you will learn about replacing various parts of your drive train and transmissions. The first time you need to panic stop for some idiot driver you will find your brakes have gone Union on you and refuse to work in unsafe conditions.
You can buy a new dodge tradesman 3/4 ton with a straight 6 Cummings if you order from a dealer and wait for slightly more than a used beat to #### one you can’t find in the first place. Then have your trailer manufacturer down rate your rating to stay under CDL requirements. Depending on you state or location your mileage may vary. Good luck out there.

 

PB Blaster is a life saver

 

I have a 2012 5.0 4x4 with the heavy payload towing package which puts it at 11,400 if I'm not mistaken. I have a fifth wheel and a gooseneck. Can I make any money out there?

 

If it can hold up ? If you can find light enough loads ? Among a thousand other variables.