All indications are that my '98 4.2 V6 has seized up. We were going to sell the truck in any case, so now our choices are:

1. Try to sell as is. (Value in good shape would be $6000 -- can i get $2000 for it as is?)

2. Rebuild (which should cost $3000-$4000, right?). This has added benefit of actually learning what happened to the engine (which quit overnight in our driveway, silently, mysteriously, unceremoniously). But one mechanic said not to let someone rebuild this engine and to:

3. Replace with crate engine (I'm told Ford would be $6000 or more).

Any suggestions/thoughts? And if #3 seems best, any recommendations?
BTW, I'm in Los Angeles.

many thanks,
Tom

 

Sounds like it may have blown a head gasket and filled a cylinder with coolant. This will keep it from turning over. Have you tried removing the spark plugs and turning it over?

 

yes: the starter and plugs were pulled; no coolant and engine would not turn. someone suggested the serp belt, and he came over and tried again with that off. no movement.

 

if in fact you find something major wrong with the engine--go to www.car-part.com and find a yard close to u that has a used 4.2--put it in--and move that truck--why didnt they stay with the 300????? sheesh

 

I would suggest finding the absolute cheapest rebuild you can find and then trading on a new one. At zero percent and the delaers are stuffed with inventory, they're wheelin' and dealin.

 

Hmmmm....It seems funny that an engine suddenly seizes up over-night. Does the starter enguage? Have you noticed any strange vibrations or noises on the last few trips?

Drop a 5.4 in there anyways

 

No, there were no warnings whatsoever. the only thing we noticed was a little oil recently on the driveway, which WAS a first for this truck. but it was small amount, and the oil was a bit low. when we tried to start it the next day, there was this loud clacking noise under the right wiper. the battery was replaced, as was the starter. nothing. plugs pulled, no liquids and no movement when trying to turn the engine by hand. i still find it hard to believe, but my mechanic is 100 percent sure it's locked up good.

 

try turning it backward by hand, unless you drove it really hot and or really low on oil it wouldn't just lockup. If i was going to swap out the ngine, see what you can find on ebay or a bone yard.