Hydrostatic lockup from failed head gasket, stuffed a rod right through the block, apparently this is common problem with the 4.2 and the engine does not have a good track record. I would not even consider repairing the engine, i would consider a complete transplant for the 4.9L six banger or even a 351 windsor but repairing the 4.2 is throwing good money after bad..

 

Well this engine ain't gonna be fixed. With the generational etronics, the best swap would be a 4.6 as it is native to that generation of van. Engine tells the computer what it's doing so trans can shift. As much as I like the 4.9--I put 100k miles on my '78 F100 that I ordered with that engine, the 4.6 in my '02 E150 performs great after 120k miles, and the 4.6's regularly go 250k miles in trucks and vans, cop cars and taxis, and limos.

I still love that 300 inch six--a real truck motor with direct timing gears. I'd love to build a rat rod with one

However, given the complexity of changing over computer parts (ideally a whole front harness and the ECU) for a 4.6 would probably make a solid rebuilt 4.2 the best choice. It would cost some bucks, but if it was built by a good shop (I like places that do race cars or commercial trucks), it would likely be better than stock. I am guessing that there may be aftermarket gaskets that would hold together better than the stockers. And built by guys who know how to make them work.

My late FIL needed head gaskets in his '83ish Cougar 3.8--thankfully under warranty. Long term problem.

Hey WVVan, let us know how you're doing. You've been such a staple contributor here.

Happy 4th,
George