Hello Oregonian/Washingtonians! PDX here. I am trying to get an expert answer. I have a 97 F-150 V-8 Triton 4.6L/281 8 boltwindsor motor that has a blown head gasket--bad--coolant in the oil! I want to replace the engine with a manufactured/warranteed engine. I have heard that I should try and get a 99-03 4.6L rather than 97 or 98 because of a factory gasket deficiency.

Can anyone provide insight into the gasket problem?
Will a 99-03 4.6L fit with no modification? If there is modification needed...what's needed?
Will the flywheel 8 bolt configuration on a 99-03 match to a 97 engine?
Any other wisdom welcomed!