Evening all,

I know that this is partially a repeated and common thread, but I'm hoping for some answers and advice that speak specifically to my problem:

I've owned a 99, a 14 FX4 TT, and now a 1997 4.6 which is a second vehicle. I replaced the transmission as soon as I bought the truck in the spring, and the engine has 160k on it, and is extremely tired, burning a fair amount of oil - likely rings - and I can't tow two motorcycles up a grade at more than 55 MPH (a problem since I keep the bikes in the mountains). I'd like to look at engine replacements, and have read enough to realize that there can be some problems with a 5.4 swap.

But what about crate engines, or newer remanufactured 4.6's? I'm not trying to build a race truck, or a light-scorcher. I'm just hoping to find a cost-reasonable option which would give me some more power than I would have from a stock 4.6.

What options do I have which would allow me to retain the wiring harness and transmission?

Thanks all.

Joshua Cagney
1997 XL 4.6