I just bought a clean little (reg cab short bed) 4x4 with a bad engine. I intend to do am diesle conversion in a year or two. Thing is I assumed when seller told me it had a bad engine, it was blown, then we went for a test ride?! A bit hard to start, and a little noisy on top, but had pleanty of get up and go (for v-6). Only thing I noticed while driving was Oil Pressure dropped low when let off accelerator and idled. A few RPM's and it smooths right out. Other than a 1973 Mustang Convertible with 302 and a 7.3 liter Super Duty, I don't know much about Ford. Does this shound like a blown motor to you? Can I get away with rebuilding top end or something?

 

Oh, and it has 155k miles total on it.

 

Could be a head gasket issue but you won't know too much more until you compression and leakdown test the motor. Could also be a failing oil pump and pickup

 

Thanks fro the prompt reply. I was also thinking Oil pump. Can you tell me if the oil pumps and or the head gaskest are a thing? I am working out getting it home so I can do the leak down. I don't want to drive it incase it is salvageable.

 

There are alot of write ups about the early 4.2L and associated engine noise. Census was, incorrect oil used and insufficient oil flow resulted in cold engine starts. I am not going to support these theories or for that matter argue against them.

Bottom line, I have an 02 4.2L with 226 on the clock. Best truck I have ever owned. Fear of the ineviteable is forcing me to look towards a replacement. Fix that puppy and use the correct 5-20 oil, forget the aftermarket crap.

 

After ferther investigation, I belive the intake is letting coolant into the block. Seller obviously did not care, so he just kept driving. now their are hints of a rod knock, so I am asuming the "bad" oil washed out the main bearings. As soon as I find a place I can work, I will pull the motor. Once I get that pulled down, I will determine if a I will repair, or get a reman with warrentee.

 

I guess you answered your question. The other option is a long block from a parts yard and their warranty, it runs or we will replace it at your troubles. LOL