2008 Expedition that stutters when hot and idling in gear

[Michael Somers]

Hi All,

New here so apologizing in advance if this isn't the correct forum for this questions.

I'm the single owner of a 2008 Expedition XLT with 261K miles on it. I've had a problem described below for the last year but it's now becoming more common. This by far is the best vehicle I've ever owned and would like to get another 40K out of it instead of trading it in.

Problem: It stutters a bit when cruising at low RPMs. Not all the time but common. The stuttering clears out with increased RPMs. Once hot, highway driving or idling for 30+ min in traffic it will start clanking and trying to stall like someone just messed with my timing. If I take it out of gear or give it a little gas it clears right up. If it does stall, it starts right back up like nothings wrong but will soon repeat the clanking if idling or very low RPMs while in gear. No idiot lights but it appears that the tach does move around a bit when it's clanking.

Any thoughts??

Thanks!

 

[00XTL]

It sounds like there is a vacuum leak. Check your vacuum lines by wiggling them around and listen for a hissing sound or change in engine speed. Also with the amount of miles on the engine it could be the intake gaskets.

 

[WEDGE]

If the engine is making noise at a hot idle, as you describe, I'd look into a complete timing job (chains, tensioners, guides, phasers) Has this job ever been done?

 

[Michael Somers]

I've had the front-rear rebuilt but very little work done to the engine.

 

[Michael Somers]

Would I expect for the computer to record an error if it's a problem with the timing?

 

[WEDGE]

Would I expect for the computer to record an error if it's a problem with the timing?

Eventually yes. I just went through this with my 2010 @96K miles. Would do exactly as you describe, and after a few months it was throwing codes for cam timing on both banks. It's all to do with lack of oil pressure. I replaced the entire set of timing components, chains, tensioners, guides, all of it!
I went so far as to upgrade to the cast iron tensioners (from the older model 5.4L) Melling High Volume M340HV oil pump and locked out the phasers (requires a tuner)
The last items were my personal preference but for you I'd recommend all OEM Ford timing parts. Definetely have it checked out by a reputable shop, or dealership first!