Got a '73 F100 fullsize custom with 5.9 360 2brrl c6 3 spd that gets 10mpg on a good day and with gas prices the way they are I'm contemplating swapping the motor and tranny out for a newer engine and aod. I work at a school shop and drive club wagons with both the 5.4 and the 5.8 in them. I know the 5.8 is pretty much bullet proof b/c we have 2 vans with the 5.8 and they're both pushing 250,000. I really like the 5.4 all around but have heard bad news about a worn thrust bearing at about 100,000 which then causes a rattling noise and oil leak. I just my pickup 90% for transportation so I want a good cruising package but also something I can use to hall when I need to obviously. Any info on either of the engines or another newer ford engine would greatly be appreciated. Also any information pro's-con's on the e40d's too. Thanks

 

The 351 or 5.8 will be far easier to work on, and much cheaper as well. It will also be easier to adapt to your truck as the 302 was a production engine in those days and mounts etc will work.

You can stick with the AOD unless you decide to go big bucks and transplant the entire engine, trans, wiring and computer from a late model 5.4--which, btw, is "best" way to use the 5.4 should you decide to go that way. Go read the 4.6/5.4 threads regarding what years to avoid.

Check here for info on the AOD. They need some attention to detail and probably some extra beef.

http://www.transmissioncenter.net/AOD.htm

http://www.baumannengineering.com/aodcat.htm
(they also have stuff for other trans including the E4OD)

http://www.tciauto.com/ford/ford_aod.htm

http://ckperformance.com/ford_aod.html

 

Thank you so much!!!