How to Install an Oil Filter in a Triton 5.4L

The 5.4L engine is most commonly found in the F-series pickups.

The Triton 5.4-liter engine has been produced with two-valve, three-valve and four-valve engines. Most recently, the three-valve engine was introduced in the F150-truck line in 2004. Ford recommends using the Motorcraft filter, though OEM equivalent filters with anti-drain-back valves can be used without violating the warranty. On engines from 1997 to 2003, the oil filter is located on the passenger's side of the engine above the drive axle. On engines produced 2004 and later, the filter is on the driver's side of the engine above the front differential.

Things You'll Need

• Socket set
• Socket Wrench
• Oil catch pan
• Oil filter cap wrench
• Rags
• Ford Motorcraft oil filter (Part number FL-820-S or equivalent)
• Nylon drain plug washer
• Motor oil

Instructions

1. Turn off the vehicle and allow the engine to cool. Slide the oil-catch pan under the oil drain plug located on the rear-facing portion of the oil pan under the vehicle. Remove the drain plug and allow the oil to drain into the catch pan. Discard the nylon washer on the drain plug.

2. Locate the oil filter. Slide the cap wrench over the head of the oil filter and attach a socket wrench to the cap. Turn the oil filter counterclockwise to loosen the silicone gasket from the engine.

3. Remove the cap wrench and socket wrench. Place rags underneath the oil filter to catch oil drips. Rotate the oil filter counterclockwise until the filter is free of the threaded post. Drain the oil from the filter into the catch pan. Use the drip rags to clean the gasket mount surface on the engine.

4. Remove the new oil filter from the box. Place a few drops of clean motor oil on one of your fingers and lubricate the new silicone gasket on the oil filter. The oil ensures the gasket is properly seated against the engine.

5. Slide the new oil filter over the threaded post and rotate clockwise to seat the filter on the threads. Spin the filter clockwise until the gasket contacts the filter seat. Rotate the oil filter clockwise one-half to three-quarters of a turn to fully seat the oil filter. Use the cap wrench and socket wrench if necessary.

6. Slide a new nylon washer to the drain plug. Insert and tighten the oil drain plug. Add new oil to return the oil level to full. Start the engine to allow the oil to fill the oil filter. Turn off the engine and check the oil level. Add additional oil if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• The filter can be accessed from under the hood, though access is less restricted from under the vehicle.

• Normal operating temperatures of the 5.4-liter engine exceed 200 degrees F. Hot oil causes burns.

• Do not overfill the oil in the engine.

References

• Ford Pick-ups/Expedition/Navigator 1997-03 Repair Manual; Chilton
• Ford F-150 2005 Owner's Guide; Ford Motor Company