4.2 issues?

[n5926g]

Hi Guys, Ive been cruising the forum here,and trying to make some sense from the 4.2 V-6 issues that are being discussed. MY 97 has the 4.2,its a LWB,Automatic with 165,000 miles showing. I have had no major problems with the motor.Ive attempted to change the oil every 3000 miles.Since im not the first owner,I have no idea whats been done previously.The mileage on it when I got it was around 125,000. I read something about Hydrolock,which is obvious that water is getting in the combustion chambers causing havoc. Id like some recommendations as to what(if anything) to do.Ive got a well equipped garage,and tools out the wazoo,I have no problems with pretty much whatever is recommended,just want to be sure Ive covered whatever Im capable of doing. Suggestions greatly appreciated...right now it purrs like a kitten,Im reminded of the old addage "if it aint broke dont fix it"..

[BrianA]

The '97 was prone to premature failure of the lower intake manifold gasket and/or the timing chain cover gasket. Ford issued a TSB and revised gaskets and torque procedure. I'd guess your's has been addressed by previous owner.
Just keep a check on the coolant level in the de-gas tank. If it starts to drop, then get it check right away.

As far as routine stuff, what I do:

oil and filter every 5K miles.
Motorcraft Plugs and wires every 70K or so.
Transmission fluid and filter (I just drop the pan, do not do the pump out thing) every 40K miles or so.
For your model year, coolant change every 50K miles or every 2 years or so.
Air filter as needed.
Fuel filter every 30K miles. (they will get pretty nasty)

Standard routine stuff is all these trucks engines need. Anything more, in my experience is a complete waist of time and money.
Approx 330k miles total between my 2000 and my 2005 and I have always kept it simple.
And that has always worked well for me.

[n5926g]

Originally Posted by BrianA

The '97 was prone to premature failure of the lower intake manifold gasket and/or the timing chain cover gasket. Ford issued a TSB and revised gaskets and torque procedure. I'd guess your's has been addressed by previous owner.
Just keep a check on the coolant level in the de-gas tank. If it starts to drop, then get it check right away.

As far as routine stuff, what I do:

oil and filter every 5K miles.
Motorcraft Plugs and wires every 70K or so.
Transmission fluid and filter (I just drop the pan, do not do the pump out thing) every 40K miles or so.
For your model year, coolant change every 50K miles or every 2 years or so.
Air filter as needed.
Fuel filter every 30K miles. (they will get pretty nasty)

Standard routine stuff is all these trucks engines need. Anything more, in my experience is a complete waist of time and money.
Approx 330k miles total between my 2000 and my 2005 and I have always kept it simple.
And that has always worked well for me.

Thanks! This truck is not a daily driver,but its been absolutely amazing concerning the tasks its performed.....