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RE: Fixing A FORD Truck 5.4 Liter Intake Manifold Coolant Leak
Good to know about this fix, I have a 2002 F-350 with the V-10. I only have 38,000 miles on it and no sign of trouble but good to know there is a possible fix. If possible pictures would be nice. Congrats on your ingenuity.
Pictures tend to be a pain. If I link Facebook Pictures, Only people logged into facebook can see them. If I link to MSN Cloud, only certain people can see those. Photo Bucket and other services have a limit on views. I can post to my own website but that is time consuming. The easiest way to post is YouTube. Some like it, Some hate it. It does allow for the story to be told set to a video. Some people are good at it, others are just so so. Let's just say I will never win an award for cinematography, but I do have fun and enjoy the making a video process.
You can also install this simple fix before a leak ever happens. I suspect with the modification, the leak will never happen.
Take Care...
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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09/21/23 12:07pm |
Truck Campers
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RE: Fixing A FORD Truck 5.4 Liter Intake Manifold Coolant Leak
The fix has been working without fail for over a week and a couple hundred miles now. It saved me from the time and expense of removing the top end, installing new gaskets, or replacing the intake manifold with the crumby Dorman one. All in all, pretty darn happy how this worked out.
Installed a new NAPA stainless steel muffler last night and hoping to get and install new semi-metalic brake pads today. A few more projects on the house and camper, then we'll be ready to go get ourselves in position to observe the Annular Solar Eclipse.
Good Times!
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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09/21/23 10:14am |
Truck Campers
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Fixing A FORD Truck 5.4 Liter Intake Manifold Coolant Leak
Easy Way To FIX A Leaking FORD Intake Manifold
I've had an F250 with a 5.4 liter engine for many years. Over those years, the 5.4 liter engine has developed a coolant leak at the front right of the engine. Ford placed the first and second intake manifold bolts about 5 to 6 inches apart which makes a wide gap of no pressure on the coolant crossover tube in the front right of the engine. This is a very common failure with this engine, also the 4.6 and the V10. The way to fix it has been to replace the intake manifold gaskets and often the intake manifold too with a Dorman manifold. A very cheaply manufactured excuse for a replacement part. Ford has stopped making the replacement manifold. There are no after market options available either. In a desperate move, not wanting to go through the process of removing and reinstalling my manifold again, I decided to try something different. I looked at the situation and came up with a simple way to fabricate a simple part and install it in the first bolt location. This FIX is a 2-1/4" x 3/4x3/4 Stainless Steel square stock drilled to take an 8mm 4.5" length of grade 8 all thread. I applied liberal Anti-seize to the threads and ran it down into the head till it bottomed, then torqued an 8mm flange nut to 18 pounds. I fashioned the cleat piece to fit contoured to the aluminum crossover tube where it presses directly centered over the coolant passage and was tightened down to 10 pounds torque, it pressed down on the crossover tube, and evenly flattened the manifold to the head stopping the coolant leak. The repair has been installed for a week now and the coolant system holds pressure and keeps holding pressure for hours after shut down. This is a repair that can be installed on an engine without changing the gaskets or doing any other work to the engine. Of course not all results will be the same but in my case, I am very pleased. This is also a repair that can be installed on an engine before the inevitable leak ever happens. I did not replace my gasket or do any other work to my truck engine other than this fix. The existing gaskets have sealed completely and I have no further leakage.
This is a very common with the Ford modular engines and I'm sure a few folks in the RV.NET community are having or have had this issue and will hopefully benefit from this information.
Best Wishes!
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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09/18/23 06:38am |
Truck Campers
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RE: 2024 Truck Camper Adventure Rally
We will be there again this year along with a couple other truck campers and SOBs.
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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09/10/23 09:27pm |
Truck Campers
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RE: VIDEO: AC Shroud Replacement, Transmission, Fuel Injectors
Video of AC Shroud Replacement
Installed an ICON Old Style Dometic AC Shroud.
$270.00 + $30.00 for incidental materials, Rivets, washers, foam tape.
The installation went well, not too difficult. I did make a few adaptations to improve fit.
Yes I spent more than I should have, but I chose to support my local store, Evergreen RV
Enjoy!
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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09/08/23 06:23am |
Truck Campers
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RE: VIDEO: AC Shroud Replacement, Transmission, Fuel Injectors
VIDEO Fuel Injectors, Pressure Regulator, Ignition Coils, Spark Plugs. VIDEO
The truck is running great again. A thousand bucks in parts and a few hours work. I'll have the transmission inspected next Thursday and also have a new muffler put on and welded in. Everything's getting fixed up and the truck is running great...
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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09/01/23 05:05pm |
Truck Campers
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RE: VIDEO: AC Shroud Replacement, Transmission, Fuel Injectors
Bought a new replacement shroud a few months ago for my dometic penguin. Bought "ICON" brand off Amazon. ~175$ American for it. Good reviews. Plastic seems better quality than the original dometic. Had to drill a few new holes to line up with the 4 existing mounting holes. Put spreading washers under the screw heads which I had before. I cover my camper when not using and this is my third shroud.
I got an Icon old style Dometic and paid 270.00 at the local rv supplier, Evergreen RV. Yeah I paid too much but it keeps the local store open for business. I planned to Install today but then the rains came. The I jesters got rained out too. I'll get out my pop up tent tomorrow if it's still raining. Transmission shop Thursday. More mo ey.
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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08/30/23 12:10am |
Truck Campers
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RE: VIDEO: AC Shroud Replacement, Transmission, Fuel Injectors
Reading your posts over the years, you’ve done a fabulous job of getting value out of your vehicle and shown that effort/ knowledge and resourcefulness pays off.
One comment about the injectors. I’m sure you’ve done your homework, but seems a bit high priced.
Another comment is to know when to say enough is enough. Yes truck prices are what they are now. And god bless it if the economy remains strong.
But thinking about future plans for your need for a truck, if she still shifts thru all 4 gears and you can bandaid the injectors with a cheap set, that same demand for trucks will likely get you more $ than it should for that truck and it’s not unreasonable to find a lower mileage newer Super duty gasser, something in the 10 year old range with a 6.2/6r140 that will not only provide more comfort/ power and years of reliable service, but will stave off (for another 10 years) the likelihood and impending “stuff” that you will have a high probability of experiencing.
Like you, I can keep an old dog running as long as it needs to for about the min cost possible.
But this is your traveling rig. The comfort and peace of mind in a good rig is far greater than say a commuter beater with another backup beater if it needs work.
Just my thoughts.
And while not a Ford guy, if I was looking for a 10-15 year old range HD pickup, the 6.2/6r140 combo would be at the top of my consideration. Had a ‘12 and a ‘15model. Both new and both turned over to the next guy at low miles, but that experience combined with their now stellar long term track record is hard to beat.
Note at some point, Ford downgraded the trans behind the 6.2 to the lighter duty (6r110?). It may have only been in the F250 models I don’t recall, but something to consider.
You're suggesting to get a newer truck in much kinder words than my younger brother. The advice is sound and eventually I will go the route of a newer, bigger truck, perhaps a 450 or 550 with a 6.7 diesel to handle a larger TC.
Right now, this truck does have a 3-year-old new engine and a heavier 4400# rated set of Leafs in the rear. It does a good job of hauling the TC when all is in good working order.
The injectors I purchased are the Delphi 10093 for 77.00 at Rock Auto. I'll also replace the pressure regulator and the inline filter with Motocraft parts. The Delphi injectors are a funny part. Some stores are selling them for 160.00 and others like Summit, JEGS, Rock Auto sell them at 77.00 each. Same part. The Motocraft injector sells for 175.00 each and that just isn't going to happen. Delphi was the cost performance price quality break point I was comfortable with.
I did originally do a cleaning and new O-Rings on the original Bosch injectors after the rebuild and the truck did run really well but over the last couple months there has been a steady degradation in performance.
After all the maintenance is finished, rebuilt transmission installed with new u-joints and carrier bearing, fuel injectors, the truck should be at a peak performance level for a few more years at a significantly lower cost than starting over with a newer truck and doing all the work to it to optimize it for hauling the TC.
In a couple years, I'll be ready to upgrade but till then, I'll make this one keep on trucking.
Injectors go in this weekend if FEDUP keeps their delivery time. Stay tuned.
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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08/24/23 11:51pm |
Truck Campers
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RE: VIDEO: AC Shroud Replacement, Transmission, Fuel Injectors
I actually repaired one damaged shroud with fiberglass cloth and resin. Some sanding and paint and it looks like new. :) But it does take time...:S
Injector order already shipped.
My shroud basically resembles a bald eagle now, top is gone.
The top is also very brittle. I hope the new one is tougher.
Need to call adventure rv. Their online ordering wouldn't place the order into the cart. May be out of stock.
I suppose I could start disassembly now and be cleaned and ready for new parts when they get here.
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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08/24/23 03:22pm |
Truck Campers
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RE: VIDEO: AC Shroud Replacement, Transmission, Fuel Injectors
$710.00 for the injectors, 79.00 fuel pressure regulator, 29.00 in line fuel filter, 36.00 platinum plugs, can't seem to place order for AC shroud. will have to contact vendor tomorrow. Things are moving along. Also got a replace back door TC light, LED with motion 73.00.
Nothing money can't buy.
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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08/23/23 09:15pm |
Truck Campers
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VIDEO: AC Shroud Replacement, Transmission, Fuel Injectors
Video of AC Shroud Replacement
Well goodie, after introducing my Air Conditioner Shroud to a low hanging branch in the Gifford Pinchot NF this weekend, I get to purchase and install a replacement unit. Prices vary, 150.00 from 1 supplier, 280.00 from the rest. Might be shipping costs included or not. Ordering soon. Noticed my transmission seems to not want to get me going over rocks, curbs, any lift in the road surface. I have a date with a very reputable shop next Thursday AM. Whatever they recommend as an improvement for towing and hauling for the assumed rebuild and torque converter, I'll rely on their expertise and experience. Lastly, Some of you may recall I installed a new engine about three years ago and did a servicing of the injectors at that time. The engine ran like a champ but has now degraded to running poorly. I'll be installing a new set of injectors at 75.00 a pop along with new spark plugs. The existing injectors have about 275K miles on them since 2000 and are probably overdue for replacement. I figure the old truckiepoo will be getting about 4 to 5000.00 bucks injected directly from my wallet into it and hopefully will run like a champ again. It has been a very good truck doing everything I've asked of it and it's time to pay the maintenance piper... Stay tuned for further details.
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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08/23/23 06:47pm |
Truck Campers
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RE: Replacing Emergency Exit Cover
I needed a Hinges old style hinge which was just curled metal that slipped into similarly curled metal. There may be a small retaining tab on one of the hinges to bend to allow the hatch cover to slide out to the side. Open all the way, release the red hatch lever and lift the whole screen and cover up 90 or more degrees to slide past the frame.
There was no replacement hatch cover available for my 22x22 hatch opening so I had to purchase aluminium angle, plexiglass, aluminium rivets, marine sealant, and fabricated my own cover. Works better than the original and since it's double pane and clear, I can stargaze while laying in bed.
Hi Jeff – Watched your video showing the construction of your custom cover. Great job and done on-site. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Yep, looks like we have a different hinge. The screens have two hinges riveted to the lid frame, so the screens do not slide off with the plastic cover. Sounds like your emergency cover has the type of hinge often used on 14 x 14 roof vents. We have replaced plenty of those before…thank you SW sunshine ;)
Our cover has an extruded aluminum-type piece riveted to the side. This slides into the piece riveted on the side of the lid frame. No rocket science and pretty darn solid ? The crossbar and opener are causing some confusion. All this is hard to describe but easy to understand when you see it!
Once the rain showers and winds stop, we’ll try taking things apart. No real rush other than we want to get the new cover on and stop the minor leaks. We can actually see a couple of cracks in the cover from the inside. Makes it easy to spot where a few drips come down the inside of the frame off the cover. No water gets to the surrounding ceiling area.
Sorry we missed you both at the TCA rally in Quartzsite. The rally was lots of fun and we’re looking forward to next year! Here’s hoping our paths cross at the 2024 rally.
I'll be there for the 2024 Rally. Lots of fun.
As time goes on, deficiencies manifest themselves. My custom fabricated escape hatch is now no exception. Some of the holes drilled and riveted have developed cracks in the plexiglass and broken the seal between panels, I now have a little moisture between clear panels. I suspect it has to do with differences in expansion and contraction between the aluminum and plastic. I may eventually disassemble the frame and replace the clear plastic panels. This time, I will drill the holes in the plastic the next drill size up so they can have some movement.
Other than that, the cover works like a champ, and I can still gaze out through it at the stars in the night sky.
Glad the video helped you.
Video If Anyone Missed Or Needs Seeing It
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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08/23/23 05:44pm |
Truck Campers
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When you accidently turn your Truck Camper Fridge off
Oh Joy, the Truck Camper Fridge Was somehow turned off and everything thawed, melted, smells sour, and is getting tossed, heading for that big garbage dump in the sky, ground, or whatever. Now performing cleanup on isle 3 with bleach wipes.
VIDEO
https://youtube.com/shorts/bDO8aXlwbJ4?feature=share
VIDEO
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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08/15/23 01:59pm |
Truck Campers
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Had a great time camping at a favorite spot.
Had a great time camping at a favorite spot.
So refreshing to have a nice peaceful quiet spot to relax and unwind.
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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08/07/23 08:38pm |
Truck Campers
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RE: VIDEO: Great Campground Nasty Road
You guys are the essence of the truck camper life. Great trip, beautiful surroundings, and a little bit of bad luck rolled up into one. You kept your head and got home safe. I'll compromise on everything else but not the tools required to do what we do. Another great adventure.
Well thank you,
There are much better adventurers on this forum, they just don't seem to post their travels anymore. Fortunately, I enjoy sharing the fun. Take care.
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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08/01/23 11:38am |
Truck Campers
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VIDEO: Great Campground Nasty Road
Great Campground Nasty Road Turnbuckle Toss and Cabover Slam
https://i9.ytimg.com/vi/OZhuPJTh4A8/mq3.jpg?sqp=CJDIoqYG-oaymwEmCMACELQB8quKqQMa8AEB-AHUBoAC4AOKAgwIABABGGUgZShlMA8=&rs=AOn4CLBBMTbApS2CaxkBHgnpaVvPehvVlg
I get up into the Gifford Pinchot NF and find a rough ride.
Beautiful though!
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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08/01/23 12:28am |
Truck Campers
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RE: Norcold gas & electric fridge
Do you have a fridge roof vent?
Have you checked to see if birds or rodents have nested in there plugging up your fridge roof ventilation? If the TC is parked so the afternoon and evening sun is hitting the side of the camper, that can cause a lot of heat around the fridge. Your gas flame may not be lined up directly under the exhaust tube where the heat is supposed to rise causing the fridge coolant to do its thing. Try to slide the plastic clip with a wire on the fridge fins down. you can also try to pull it outward but that is not ordinary. Good luck figuring things out.
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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07/31/23 10:35pm |
Truck Campers
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Manastash Ridge Forest Roads Ellensburg To Cle Ellum
Manastash Ridge Forest Roads Ellensburg To Cle Ellum
https://i9.ytimg.com/vi/Gg_1AVv4Erg/mqdefault.jpg?v=649cec79&sqp=CIDe86QG&rs=AOn4CLA_zmwKHwClTZkAe8k5mmRPFteldw
Making several scenic stops crossing the Cascades the hard way.
I drive the rough roads, so you don't have to.
But that will be in another video.
Watch Jeff blow a gasket!
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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06/28/23 08:51pm |
Truck Campers
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RE: VIDEO: Vintage 1968 JEEP 4x4 Camper
That is a cool RV I have never seen before. That one and some of the Serro Scotty units on the dodge, are my favorites
If you pause and read the information sheet on the windshield, it says a couple hundred units were made that year, but this is the only Jeep based unit built.
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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06/26/23 02:55pm |
Class C Motorhomes
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VIDEO: Vintage 1968 JEEP 4x4 Camper
This topic has been moved to another forum.
You can read it here: 30399166
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Camper_Jeff_&_Kelli
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06/25/23 09:43pm |
Truck Campers
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