I have a 2008 f150 with the 5.4 with 175k. I have worked the truck hard. Changed spark plugs at 120k with no issues and 1 coil pack. Biggest issue being in Alaska is power steering hoses have all been replaced once and now with Arctic grade hoses. With routine maintenance it's been a great truck and would definetly buy it again.

2002 f250 5.4l shot 2 plugs out, cracked exhaust manifold, right front u joint went, have to destroy a $500 wheel bearing to fix it. body went south within 5 years. I normally run a truck for 10 years, this one lasted 5.

I bought one last June. It’s got some minor issues but nothing to cry about yet. Bought it to keep the miles off my ‘18 Silverado and not beat it up for work. It’s an ‘04 I think. Maybe an ‘06. Can’t recall at the moment. I’ve put almost 20k miles on it since June. Can’t complain too much. Does need timing chain replaced this coming spring and it’ll probably get the plugs done at the same time but I’m not overly concerned yet. If it dies, I’ve pretty much gotten my money’s worth already.

There were I believe two 5.4l 3 valve engines. The easiest way is to look at the 8th digit of the VIN number. The most common VIN code for the 3 valve is 5, for the life of me I cant remember the other.

I think you may be right. If I bought the F150, which I've decided not to do, I would have to beef up the springs in the front end to handle the Boss plow I have on the W350. As I said, the Dodge hasn't even got 100,000 miles on it. I'll have to try some other mechanics.