1997 E-250 van - dealer service issue?

[Zwes]

About a year ago I bougt used CNG dedicated E-250 cargo van in excellent condition with 43 000 miles. I brougt it to Ford dealer service and have them replaced all spark plugs . After drivig it for another 10 000 all highway miles 3-rd right spark plugs blew out damaging cylinder head. I towed van back to the same dealer and was told that is a common problem on tis type of vehicle and has nothing to do with, in my opinion ,slopy job they did. I spoke to couple friendly mechanics and was told that problem was caused by spark plug not being correctly installed. Ford estimate for repair $4500.
Did anybody else had this problem? I am trying to verify that it is a common problem. I would greatly appreciated any information.

[jenki_putnik]

Re: 1997 E-250 van - dealer service issue?

This is a common problem.

http://www.fordproblems.com/spark-plug-ejected-from-engine.shtml

See attached repair proceedure

[cngmike]

Re: 1997 E-250 van - dealer service issue?

I had the same thing happen on dodge caravan and a couple of old Volkswagens I've owned. A helicoil is a easy fix any do it yourselfer can handle

[tomelroy]

Re: 1997 E-250 van - dealer service issue?

I have 4 vans with the triton 5.4 and have never had a problem. However I have read that there is a serious design flaw with the head and blowing spark plugs is all to common. I have recently been reading about a repair that looks superior to the helicoil. Check it out http://www.timesert.com/

If it wasnt for helicoil or timesert, I personally would consider replacing the engine rather than paying ~3500 for a replaced head from ford.