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Hey I was looking at buying a 2011 E-350 van. Found a good one in need of a motor. Being handy with a wrench this seems like a good deal. However, I am told that the 5.4L engine that's in it can not be replaced with a 5.4L from the F-150 of same year. When I ask why, they tell me "it's a different part number". While that is most likely true, anyone know what the differences actually are? How much work would it be to swap it over? (If it's even possible) Reason I'm asking is because there are only 2 E engines available in western Canada and they're not giving them away!
Hi there:
Would not be a direct swap. The F150 has had the 3-valve 5.4 since 2004 (the one with the sticking spark plugs); the E series vans never got the 3-valve engine and use the 2-valve engine as used in 2003 and earlier F series trucks. The Expedition and larger F pickups also got the 3-valve 5.4, maybe a year or so later than 2004.
So you can either find a really old (earlier than 2004) 5.4 out of an F series (but there may be different parts and calibration) or just look for an E series 5.4. They would also be used in E350 chassis cabs and stuff although that does not increase their availability very much.
Good luck,
George
So it's not just the part number; I would imagine that the 3-valve engine has a much different computer as it has variable valve timing hardware, etc.
Thanks for reply. So as far as wiring, sensors and so on, the old 2003 style 5.4L would work? Seems strange they would have used such an old engine all the way up to 2011!
From what I understand the 3V heads are larger and wouldn't fit in the E-series chassis. I believe this was the only application of the 2V 5.4L engine after 2004.
Ford has carried certain engines forward in the past. The 4.6 came out in Crown Vics in the early 90's (I think Lincoln got it first) and the F and E series got it in 1997 as the Triton. The Explorer used the 302 thru 2001. The 2002 redesign of the Explorer allowed the 4.6 to fit...
The horsepower race in the pickup market was more important than the vans, which were primarily utility vehicles instead of the "image" market that drives some F150 sales.
I do NOT know if an older engine would work in a newer van; the sensors and other hookups might be different. As I recall, the van has its own specific front cover and accessory mounts. You might or might not be able to move this stuff from the blown up engine to the new/old engine. I would say you're best off seeking a 5.4 out of a van that is close to the year of yours.
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