I've got 75K on my 04' Super Cab FX4 with the 5.4L. Last weekend while towing a camper trailer, the engine broker a rocker arm. Which in turn, damaged the head and piston. I was in the middle of no where so I had it towed to the nearest dealer. They want $4800 to fix it or $6600 for a new engine installed. I live in Houston and just weathered a hurricane. Any suggestions on what to do? Thanks a lot.

 

That's the only options you have with the dealer. The question is, which option has the better warrenty?

 

Its common knowledge my experience with Triton engines is nothing. Am disappointed that there is no built in internal clearance between pistons and valves. Thought we got away from that 30 years ago.

 

The engine would have a 3 year 100K warranty I believe, and the repair would have a 12 month 12K mile warranty. I talked to Ford customer service and they wouldn't do anything to help. Awesome.

 

Not knowing your experience or tools available, consider buying the engine your self and save the dealership labor charges. You will have more time involved, no doubt. But look at the knowledge and experience gained. Take pics as you disassemble for later reference to assembly. Take your time and ask questions. Guys here will talk you through it.

 

Considering the amount of money I would save, that is definitely something to think about. My friends neighbor works for Ford Parts. He said a new engine from Ford runs about 4500.00. Does that sound right or could I get one cheaper somewhere else?

 

Probably there are cheaper ones available. Cheaper doesn't mean better. If you are considering doing the job your self, also think about doing the repair your self. Not having experience with the Triton engines, I am still doubting the extent of damage to the engine in general. A broken rocker arm so what, how did the internal engine parts get damaged. Am thinking about replacing the rocker arm and take a compression reading for another opinion. I know starring at this keyboard won't fix the engine, I just see a chance of no intertnal engine damage.

 

I used to work for a shop that was a Jasper dealer. Jasper reman engines have a 3 year / 75,000 mile warranty and are bullet proof when compared to other reman companies.

www.jasperengines.com

 

hmm. i have heard of the 4.6 engines throwing a rocker arm off and missing bad but never any internal damage.

 

I called Ford and explained my situation and they agreed to pay $2000K towards my new engine. I got a 3yr 100,000 mile warranty. I don't really have time to shop around, so it sounded like a good deal to me. Still not happy about my engine going out at 75,000 miles, but thats life I guess.