e-150/4.8-v-8

[gypsyman]

Just picked up a 2004 Ford E-150 with the small v-8(4.8l) Has 36,700 miles on it. Read mostly good things about this engine and trans combo(3speed auto with overdrive) Thought the 5.4 might be better, but then read some posts about Ford having trouble with that engine blowing spark plugs. So when I found this van with this engine, had to go with it. Seems like it's got plenty of power, find out how good the MPG is this weekend, as is maiden voyage to the OGCA show in Wilmington.
Anybody have much experience with this motor? Good, bad or indifferent. I have had pretty good luck with Ford trucks and vans. Any comments? gypsyman

[R.W.Dale]

 Everyone has diffrening opinions. But my expertise with the 4.6 is it's a completely gutless turd thats slower than other manufacturers v6's. In an f-150 extended cab a AUTO the engine is struggling to pull an UNLOADED pickup around much less a loaded one. Expect MPG to be uniformly BAD especially considering the lack of power these engines have. In my opinion the older 300 I6 or even the 302 is TWICE the motor you get when you buy a 4.6


 Whatever you do DON'T ever wash a 4.6 

[GatCat]

A radio talk show I listen to that is hosted by a (seemingly) very knowledgeable mechanic was asked about that engine last Sat. He HIGHLY recommended changing the coolant every two years,and to use what Ford recommends.This change is more frequent then what the owners manual says. Other then that ,he said its an ok engine. The mustang guys lean on them very heavily, and they seem to last.
Mark