is it advisable to get a 5.4L 3V instead of the 4.6L even if you dont plan to tow anything or you just want a regular cab shortbox,just because the new truck is so much heavier??

 

Have you test driven both?

 

yes,the 4.6L seems to be adequate,not sure though

 

Then it all boils down to two things:

1) Do you want to spend the extra money for more motor now?
2) Would you prefer increased gas mileage?

I'll let those that actually own a 4.6L comment on them, but from what I have heard they are good motors, just not as powerful.

 

I've test drove the truck with both engines...The 4.6L was adequate for hwy and city driving...it seemed like I had to mash the pedal a little more with the 4.6L than with the 5.4L...If I was getting a regular cab I would definetely consider the 4.6L

 

IMO the 4.6 is a good engine and I test drove an XLT with a 4.6...but it was worth the $800 or whatever it was to upgrade for me, even if there is a chance in the future I will tow. There is a noticeable power increase between the two engines. For me, I was either going to spend the money now, or in the future on performance parts for the 4.6 L engine

 

I wonder if it would have significantly more resale value in the future with the 5.4

 

I had a 2000 Scab with 4.6 and 3.55 rear. Put a 130,000 miles on it with no problems. Truck seemed underpowered to me. Would shift out of over drive on small hills on highway.
My new truck, 2004 Scab with 5.4 and 3.73 runs much better and is well worth the extra money.

 

From what I have seen, messing with Kelly's Blue Book values, you'll get about half money back from upgrading from a 4.6 to 5.4:

2001 F150, short bed, 40,000 miles

4.6
Trade-in - $9,250
Private sale - $10,870

5.4
Trade-in - $9,650
Private sale - $11,335

Difference
Trade-in with a 5.4 + $400
Private sale – 5.4 + $465

 

I had a 4.6 in my 97 and got along fine. My 04 Supercrew weighs over 5800 #'s (2WD). I would highly recommend the 5.4 3V for this 800-1000# heavier truck. I do believe you would have more buyers down the road with a 5.4 over the 4.6, but who knows for sure.

 

YES....

Big HP/Torque gain with same (or very close) gas mileage....

Its a no brainer ....

The 4.6L is not scheduled to be re-worked to the 3V version until at least '05 when the Heritage version is gone ...

 

I had the 4.6 in my 1998 XLT Supercab. It was fine at the time.

Now I have a 2001 XLT Supercab with the 5.4. What a big difference! The 5.4 is well worth the extra money.

There is very little difference in mpg. About 1 mpg overall.

Go with the 5.4, you won't regret it.

 

I disagree with your analysis TSS.

I believe we are talking a newer buyer here, most likely doesn't have unlimited funds and is probably looking to squeeze $$$ where possible.

From what I have read the 4.6 most definitely gets better gas mileage (avg 4 mpg) and the motor costs less to begin with.

He is not going to tow and he is buying a reg. cab.

I stand by my advice.

 

I think it boils down to money vs power.

Mileage is not 4mpg better for the 4.6. I bet the 3 valves make up for the extra displacement.

EPA says 14-19 for both.

 

Blitzkrieg .... ultimately the buyer makes the decision ... my advice was based on the following:

1. Cost of engine : $895.00 MSRP ... actual cost more like $400 ... if this makes or breaks the deal for a buyer, than so be it ... but if ya' gonna drop $23K on a truck, whats $400?

2. Every 4.6 owner I know wishes they opted for the 5.4 ;-)

3. Better resale/trade in (albiet marginally)

4. I have yet to see anything indicating a +/- 4 mpg difference between the two displacements (289 vs 331).

Weight is a non-issue as all reg. cabs are Heritage, right?


Also, see this thread from a sister site:

http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/ar...pic/134523.htm

My .02 cents