Replacing Headgaskets?
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Junior User
Joined: Mar 2007
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Replacing Headgaskets?
Hey yall, I recently bought a 99 f150 lariat with the 4.6. thought i got a good deal but it turns out it needs head gaskets. anyway i was wondering how hard of a job this is to do, how long should i expect it to take me and what special tools will i need to do it? Also when i order my head gaskets what are all the other parts/gaskets should i should order? I understand the head bolts need to be replaced. is this true? I will be starting this project in a coulple weeks and i want to make sure that i have everything that i need before i start.
Thanks
Thanks
Elder User
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 842
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From: royal oak, mich
First thing get a good comprehensive repair manual and read every last detail. Do a search in here for threads that people have done this. Getting all the timing gears lined up is the main thing besides the surface finish on the head gasket sealing surfaces. OEM gaskets are fine as well as Felpro. Now what you should ask yourself is why the gaskets are leaking. These engines can rack up a big number on mileage without trouble. As you take it apart mark things and inspect for excessive wear. There are special tools available but we didn't have them on the prototypes and got the head gaskets changed ok. Of course the engines were on a stand but when you're trying out different gaskets and replacements were rare you wanted the tests to go right.
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 2,220
Likes: 26
Pulling heads is so much work that yanking the engine as a unit saves hassle and allows thorough cleanup. I never assume a bottom end is good, and always inspect bearings and replace the rear main seal when I have and engine out. T
I also never buy any parts or gaskets until the engine has been inspected.
I also never buy any parts or gaskets until the engine has been inspected.
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Junior User
Joined: Mar 2007
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Thanks for the info. I was thinking about it and I think i might just look for a whole new engine with less milage on it. Is this a good idea? what should i look out for if i do this? How much work would it be to upgrade to a 5.4.
Thanks
Thanks
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 2,220
Likes: 26
"Is this a good idea? what should i look out for if i do this?"
I'd rather swap in an engine than resuscitate an old one. It's easier and usually much cheaper.
I'd want to hear it run (and if I can drive the donor, even if its wrecked and I'm just going around the lot). Look for water in the oil, listen for odd noises, etc.
I get everything plenum to oil pan including accessories and sensors where possible. Always disconnect the donor engine harnesses carefully so they don't get damaged.
I'd rather swap in an engine than resuscitate an old one. It's easier and usually much cheaper.
I'd want to hear it run (and if I can drive the donor, even if its wrecked and I'm just going around the lot). Look for water in the oil, listen for odd noises, etc.
I get everything plenum to oil pan including accessories and sensors where possible. Always disconnect the donor engine harnesses carefully so they don't get damaged.
Elder User
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 842
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From: royal oak, mich
I've been looking around online at the local junk yards for a 5.4 3v or 4v engine complete. They've been pricing around $1800 complete. I would get the ECM specifically for the engine tou get.
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