Hi, I am considering buying a 1997 F150 XLT (4.6L, extended cab 4x4) but it has engine problems. The current motor has just over 200,000 KM and uses oil. Current owner says low compression on 2 cylinders. Is it worth the trouble to rebuild the stock engine, or take the risk with dropping in a "wrecker special"? Either way, the truck is in overall great shape (no rust, damage, etc.) and the asking price is dirt cheap. Opinions?

 

Well i wouldnt get a junkyard engine not worth it get a remanufactured one with warranty

 

If I got a recent pull from a good running wreck (that I could hear running first) I'd use it.

 

I agree, a good used factory built low mileage engine would be better than a rebuilt.
You need a 97 or 98 engine. 99-up have different heads.

 

Thanks for the answers...on the used motors topic, will any 97-98 4.6L work? Say out of a Mustang or a Crown Vic? Or is it advisable to just find a low mileage motor out of an E or F series?
Also, if I happen to find one newer than 98, is it that much more trouble to drop in?

As far as remanufactured motors, is that something I am going to have to get through Ford?

 

There are actually a couple of options here. On the 97-98 there are 2 4.6L engines. A Romeo and a Windsor. It is easiest to swap the same. Most cars are Romeo, but not all. Trucks seem to be about 50/50. The Vin number will tell you. I believe it is 6 for a Romeo and W for Romeo. There are some minor differences in the valvetrain and flywheel bolts. If you get one from a car, you will just need to use the original bolt-on stuff from the truck like intake and exhaust manifolds as well as the front drive accessories.
You can use a 99-04 4.6L but you will need one from a truck to get the correct truck intake manifold to match the better heads. Just make sure it matches as well as far as Romeo and Windsor.

 

I just replace the engine in my 97 F-150 with a Ford rebuilt crate engine. Warranty is 3 years and 75,000 mile. Their tech support was nothing short of fantastic. If anything goes wrong I take it to Ford and they do the rest. I did install this myself and would strongly suggest that you follow their instructions to a Tee and keep records and reciepts of all work. Other than that I'm very pleased with the way this project came together.
Chris

 

Thanks to everyone for the insight. I think I will try to find a crate motor. The idea of warranty is pretty nice. Any suggestions on how to find a crate motor or rebuilt? If its just something I can get through the local Ford dealer, then great.

I live in small town Saskatchewan (2 hours from a city) and have to do most of my "shopping" online. We do have a local Ford dealer, but not too much else...not even a real wrecker...

I came across a website for rhinoengine.com. has anyone used one of their motors?

 

Rhino would have been next choice. But if something goes wrong you are responsible for making the arrangements and taking care of any warranty issues. I purchased my engine thru a friend that owns a repair shop. He picked it up thru a Ford parts wholesaler. They delivered the engine and picked up the core. And I too live out in the sticks. So if you know of someone who has a shop you might want to see if they can help you out. If they can, I sure would't think twice about reimbursing them for their help.
Good luck,
Chris