The 2v 5.4 is a stout motor with a few flaws that got worked out as the design aged. I'm not too keen on the 3v version, but as we can see here... not too many people are reporting problems on an engine that is now 2 1/2 years old.

My only issue with the towing aspect is the GCWR... I see too many people towing too heavy a load for their trucks and wondering why they blow transmissions and run through brakes. Vans are heavier than trucks so the towing capacity drops. A fully loaded E150 with the 5.4 will not tow 7000# and be "cool" about it. It's not the engine that I'd be worried about, but the rest of the drivetrain, suspension, and brakes...

-Kerry