Hello all I recently just picked up an 04 fx4 with 292,000 from my co-worker who owned it since brand new. Damn thing runs great and seems to be in good shape overall. I honestly think it runs better than my 03 with 125,000 but that could just be me. Only issue is the reverse does not work but all forward gears work as they should and there is a loud ticking/tapping sound at hot idle. Picked up the truck for ridiculously cheap and plan on using it as my daily to let my wife use the 03 in bad weather. What are your guys thoughts on what I should do going forward? Rebuild or replace trans? Thoughts on tapping sound?

 

With 292k, I'd consider dropping a boneyard engine and trans in it. Those 5.4 3 valve engines can be a pain to work on, the VCT system was garbage. Replacing all the timing components ain't cheap.

 

Thsnks for replying and yea I was thinking of possibly going that route I know the trans definitely needs done for PA inspection so that's definitely a priority. Would u think I'd definitely have to worry about the noise from the motor if it is the phasers? I was told by someone if I can deal with the noise then don't sink the money into that. I've owned nothing but 2v before so the 3v is all new to me so any feedback is helpful

 

If you can live with the noise, go ahead and run it - with the idea that you may be looking at an engine change down the line. You can try using a heavier oil to try to minimize the racket - some people have reported good results with 10w40.

 

Yep the noise doesn't bother me too much cause i normally have the radio up anyway. And ok can u get motorcraft oil in 10w40? I'm pretty sure my local stores don't carry it

 

No, you will have to use a different brand.

 

Ok thanks I try to stick with motorcraft oil and filters in all my vehicles but I will definitely try something else next oil change but keep the motorcraft filter

 

I would personally not use a heavier oil in the 3V. This thing needs good oil pressure to the timing chain tensioners on startup. If you don't get it right away, it can let the chain slap and destroy the tensioners. I would stick with 5W20 on this engine personally.