Does anyone know if I can replace the running gear in my 1997 with a 4.6 with the running gear from a 2003 with a 5.4 ? My 97 has 235k and has some head problems and the 03 has only 70k and was well maintained but was totaled in an accident.

 

What do you mean by running gear? Am old school, is that the same as the complete powertrain? (Engine, trans and differential)

 

The '97 4.6L uses the EDIS-8 ignition system; the '03 5.4L uses, I believe, COP. The PCM from one is not compatible with the other.

I may be wrong (hope not) but I think the EDIS-8 system could be carried over to the 5.4L; however, some of the other sensors on the newer engine may have compatibility problems as well. A thorough comparison between the two systems is required to find and reconcile the differences, and that, for me, is beyond the scope of this forum.

 

I am thinking about taking the the entire powertrain and whatever wiring or other misc. parts I might need. I was wondering if the new stuff will bolt up to the older chassis and what kind of wiring issues I might run into?