1992 Ford F250 460 78,000 miles.

For several years, I have been noticing that this monstrous engine cannot pull a trailer with 2 ATVS and keep up on a hill with my 2014 Tundra pulling a 30' RV. I have been everywhere and tried everything, including new CAT, new transmission (it actually failed), tune ups, KN Air Filter kit, performance distributor stuff (probably got taken there). Unfortunately, I am going through about a quart of oil and regularly refilling coolant. No identifiable leaks under the vehicle, no black smoke, no white smoke, no smoke at all, tail pipe is not oily. I recently had a compression test done, said everything was perfect. No notable oil in coolant or vice versa. Engine runs smooth, if under powered with a load on.

All the shops tell me I am just expecting too much out of a Ford gas engine, except the last guy that told me I just need to replace the motor. On a 1992 truck....

Please, any ideas?

 

What axle gearing is in it, and what tire size are you running?

 

410 and 265 75 R 16

 

Okay that shouldn't be an issue as those tires are the same diameter as stock, just a little wider. That truck should tow two four wheelers no problem, so I wouldn't say you're expecting too much, but it is worth asking, where are you located? High altitude really pulls power down on naturally aspirated engines.

Did the shop that did the compression test tell you what the numbers were? Why did the other shop recommend a fresh engine?

It's unclear how much oil consumption you have, could you clarify?