I am looking to purchase 2007-2008 F-150, mainly a base bones truck to tow a 3500 pound boat on flat terrain.

Which engine has better reliability to meet this need?

Also I know the automatic transmission will but about 1500 pounds more than the manual. Which transmission is more reliable.

Any recommendations and personal experiences would be appreciated.

 

I drive a 4.2. I've towed some smaller u-haul trailers and a small boat without any trouble, but it wasn't any more than 2K lbs.

As for the gas mileage, I can't speak for the 4.6, but I get anywhere between 18 and 21.

Reliability? I've haven't reached 70K yet, but so far, it runs solid. Haven't had a single problem with the engine or transmission.

 

I have a 4.6
tow 3500 daily in town and get 13-15 mpg
unloaded 16 or so
highway 22 going 70
I have 3.73's no problems but only at 25k miles
if you only tow occasionally it wont realy matter which you can get the best deal on the truck.

 

If I had to get one of those, the 4.6. The truck won't have to work near as hard with the V8.

 

Yea get the 4.6. i havent had any problems towing with mine. i pull a 3500 pound bass boat every weekend. Also have pulled our race rig, 6k lbs, 6 hours or so with no issue. the 4.2 will be overworked in my opinion.

 

I got almost 100k on my 4.6 and all I've done to the motor is change the oil and fuel filters and put a thermostat in it, runs like brand new, needs plugs pretty soon tho

 

If you get the V-6, look at swapping gears to 4.10's. I'd be a bit hesitant to get a manual trans due to the M5OD input shaft weakness. The NBS trucks are a lot heavier than the 97-03 and the V-6 has to work pretty hard. Reliability is great with either engine.

 

I would personally save up for a 5.4, but since you didn't list it as an option, I would have to recommend the 4.6 just because you tow.

 

x2.

 

x3, if your going to tow anything, get that 4.6 hands down!

 

I vote for the 4.6 also. Although both motors are extremely reliable when maintained properly.