hi everyone, im in the market for a used Clubwagon, I found several 96 to 99 with rod knocks... are 4.2 V6 just a bad ford motor? Im leaning toward a smaller motor for the better gas milage. I will not tow heavy trailers and acceleration isnt a factor. just looking for a reliable travel van. There is 97 clubwagon with rod knock for 500 bux right now.. so Im wondering if its worth it to buy a used/rebuilt/reman motor into it. But if its just a bad motor maybe i will just stay away and buy a 4.6 V8... Thanks guys, Yohei

 

I know that Ford has some issues with the 4.2 V6 but can't say exactly what they are. I have seen plenty of 4.2s that went 100,000+ miles with no trouble. But the 4.2 will be very wimpy in a clubwagon. Clubwagons by nature are heavier than most any other truck that you would find that motor in.

I have driven several f150s with the 4.2, most were stipper model fleet trucks, and they felt pretty underpowered. It would be much worse in the heavier Clubwagon. I would recommend finding a 5.0 or 4.6 and skip the 4.2. Mileage won't be any better with the 4.2 over the 4.6 and the 4.6 is slightly better than the 5.0. I love my 5 liter clubwagon. It makes a great long distance cruiser and has more than adequate power.

Steve
'95 Clubwagon XLT

 

The fuel mileage gain is marginal in a heavy brick (clubwagon). The 4.2 wasn't bad, it just wasn't designed to haul a 6k pound beast around all day. The early 4.2 had problems with cams breaking, and rod knock seems to be an issue in some higher mileage engine. Ask around in the 4.2 forum, they will know more.