I have been reading about this known probems with 97/98 fords and I think it just happen to me. Last week I went to start my engine and it didn't even try to start. At first I thought it was the battery, I tried a new battery and still doing the same thing. I took the spark plugs out and I got coolant coming out of the 2 right front spark plugs. As soon as I took the spark plugs out coolant just stared pouring out. After I took the plugs out I tried to started again, but nothing. I tried to turn the pullew with a wratchet but it won't turn at all. I'm I going to need a new engine or would I need to rebuild it? I had this guy come over and take a look at it, at first he said it was the heads, but after I told him about no being able to turn the pulley he said that there might be something broken inside. How much time do I have before the coolant starts rusting the engine? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

check under your oil filler cap for foam. This would indicate the engine has been run with enough coolant in it to possibly cause scoaring and gauling on the crank and cam jornals. If so, get a pro to determine (oil pressure test) if you need a teardown. You drove it to were it's parked right? I don't think its something broke inside. I would guess it's a cracked head or intake manifold...

 

There was some whitish foam on the filler cap. I did drive to where I parked it, but I didn't notice anything different the last time I drove it. If I have been driving it with coolant in the engine would I need to rebuild the engine rigth? Or could I just replace the damage part(s)and call it good? I started looking for a used engine in junk yards but they want $2000 for one. I think I'll be better off either rebuild it or getting a new crate engine. Hey thanks for the reply, I'll let you how it turns out.

 

Your lower intake gaskets have failed. Take "all" of the plugs out and try turning it over.There might be more cylinders filled with coolant.If you are lucky it might turn over and expell all the coolant from the cylinders.You then can replace the lower intake gaskets and your oil and be good to go! Good luck and keep us posted!

 

If you want to jump over to the 4.2 specific forum, you can get more info on this subject.
Sad, but it was kinda' common on the early 4.2 motors.