How good was the Ford 3.8 Liter V6 motor they used on the LTD's (mid size), Thunderbird's, Taurus's and Mustang's? of the 80's/early 90's?

 

These engines have a reputation for blowing head gaskets, especially in the early 90's. It is my opinion that after it is repaired (and not all of them will need repairs) the 3.8 is a good motor. Of course, I may be biased. I have an '88 Cougar that I purchased new with the 3.8 that has over 300K miles and the valve covers and oil pan have not been taken off. YMMV.

 

Yep - what he said.

I think the 4.2 shares the gasket legacy with the 3.8. If you have the gasket repaired (or dodge that bullet all together) they seem to be pretty long-lived motors.