Im lookin to retire my 78 f 250. Been lookin around and thought i would ask you guys how well the 4.2 runs and what kind of mods can be done to it? Any info appreciated!!!!!

 

I'm happy with mine. You can't do to it what you can to a 5.4 but you can get more than enough passing power and I'm sure you'll use a lot less fuel than your 78. I've seen headers, exhaust, intake, throttle body spacers, chips and more.

 

Let's see.....Let’s see…performance for the 4.2:

Chips (Diablo, SCT, Superchips, JET, etc.)
Cold air intakes (Volant, Airraid, Air Force 1, K&N)
Exhaust ( just about anybody can make a muffler fit to any application)
Roller rockers (RPM Mustangs carry these, 1.8 adjustable)
Custom CAMs ( RGR is the one who comes to mind off the top of my head)
Custom adapted superchargers – I’ve got one
I know of someone putting together a turbo

Then theres other universal stuff:

NOS
Posi or locker units
E-fans
Port and polished heads, etc.

Also, keep in mind that anything fit for the F150 will bolt up:

Oil/Intercoolers
exterior mods like Valence/fog lights
side skirts
etc.

Have fun bud!

Garrett

 

I bought mine new in 2001 and have not been too nice to it. I drive fast and occassionally over load it when hauling. But I have not had a single thing bad happen to it. I have over 70k miles on my 4.2L 5spd and it still chirps in second and third gear. Gas mileage, well...it's a truck. But I am sure it will be better than your 250. Bottom line...they are really good trucks even if you dont baby them.

 

Oh yes you can. Easily, you just gotta look harder. The difference is in performance. A V8 will get more power per mod than a V6.

 

Hello 78 and welcome to FTE.
I have been completely satisfied with my 4.2. To me, it's all a matter of what you are looking for.
In my case, I wanted an expensive, practical FORD truck. I got exactly what I wanted.
The 4.2 is not a torque monster but it is certainly an adequate fullsize truck. Unless you do a lot of heavy towing or hauling (then I'd look at the 250 or 350 anyways) the 4.2 should do you fine - or so I'd guess.

Best of luck!

 

Brian, how much did you pay!? And if you wanna throw money away, I will email you my address!

garrett

 

Me too, Me too!!!! I am broke...After all, that is why I bought a 4.2 and not a Lightning.

 

HA !!! I'm laughin out loud right now!!

Boy that was a bone head mistake. Pretty sharp of you to catch it Garrett!

I should have been suspicious when the salesman told me:
"Normal price is $16,750. But for you, I'll make it an even $20 thousand!"

 

LoL!!! Thats the second funniest thing Ive heard today. Thanks for the laugh Brian.

Seriously though...I'll email you my address if you want. Broke military man here

Garrett