1997 F150: Rebuild or replace engine?
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From: Moosomin, SK, Canada
1997 F150: Rebuild or replace engine?
Hi, I am considering buying a 1997 F150 XLT (4.6L, extended cab 4x4) but it has engine problems. The current motor has just over 200,000 KM and uses oil. Current owner says low compression on 2 cylinders. Is it worth the trouble to rebuild the stock engine, or take the risk with dropping in a "wrecker special"? Either way, the truck is in overall great shape (no rust, damage, etc.) and the asking price is dirt cheap. Opinions?
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From: Moosomin, SK, Canada
Thanks for the answers...on the used motors topic, will any 97-98 4.6L work? Say out of a Mustang or a Crown Vic? Or is it advisable to just find a low mileage motor out of an E or F series?
Also, if I happen to find one newer than 98, is it that much more trouble to drop in?
As far as remanufactured motors, is that something I am going to have to get through Ford?
Also, if I happen to find one newer than 98, is it that much more trouble to drop in?
As far as remanufactured motors, is that something I am going to have to get through Ford?
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From: Louisville,Ky.
There are actually a couple of options here. On the 97-98 there are 2 4.6L engines. A Romeo and a Windsor. It is easiest to swap the same. Most cars are Romeo, but not all. Trucks seem to be about 50/50. The Vin number will tell you. I believe it is 6 for a Romeo and W for Romeo. There are some minor differences in the valvetrain and flywheel bolts. If you get one from a car, you will just need to use the original bolt-on stuff from the truck like intake and exhaust manifolds as well as the front drive accessories.
You can use a 99-04 4.6L but you will need one from a truck to get the correct truck intake manifold to match the better heads. Just make sure it matches as well as far as Romeo and Windsor.
You can use a 99-04 4.6L but you will need one from a truck to get the correct truck intake manifold to match the better heads. Just make sure it matches as well as far as Romeo and Windsor.
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I just replace the engine in my 97 F-150 with a Ford rebuilt crate engine. Warranty is 3 years and 75,000 mile. Their tech support was nothing short of fantastic. If anything goes wrong I take it to Ford and they do the rest. I did install this myself and would strongly suggest that you follow their instructions to a Tee and keep records and reciepts of all work. Other than that I'm very pleased with the way this project came together.
Chris
Chris
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From: Moosomin, SK, Canada
Thanks to everyone for the insight. I think I will try to find a crate motor. The idea of warranty is pretty nice. Any suggestions on how to find a crate motor or rebuilt? If its just something I can get through the local Ford dealer, then great.
I live in small town Saskatchewan (2 hours from a city) and have to do most of my "shopping" online. We do have a local Ford dealer, but not too much else...not even a real wrecker...
I came across a website for rhinoengine.com. has anyone used one of their motors?
I live in small town Saskatchewan (2 hours from a city) and have to do most of my "shopping" online. We do have a local Ford dealer, but not too much else...not even a real wrecker...
I came across a website for rhinoengine.com. has anyone used one of their motors?
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Rhino would have been next choice. But if something goes wrong you are responsible for making the arrangements and taking care of any warranty issues. I purchased my engine thru a friend that owns a repair shop. He picked it up thru a Ford parts wholesaler. They delivered the engine and picked up the core. And I too live out in the sticks. So if you know of someone who has a shop you might want to see if they can help you out. If they can, I sure would't think twice about reimbursing them for their help.
Good luck,
Chris
Good luck,
Chris
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