I am looking at getting a 1997, 4.2L V6 4x4 with just 77k miles (very soon).
I see there are what seem like a lot of issues with the 4.2 V6 engine.
If I buy the truck & have the head gasket & lower intake gasket replaced when I buy it will this almost eliminate most of the problems?
Does anyone know approx how much it will cost for a dealer to replace both of these gaskets?


Thanks guys.

 

In my opinion, I wouldn't change the gaskets til something happens. It seems that 50% of the motors have problems with the gaskets....what side of the fence are you on? If everything else checks out mechanically, at least look into what things might cost, just in case you have to do it down the road.

 

Ide replace them! Why have to worry if they are gonna go bad and hydrolock? Its good insurance to replace them.What would you prefer;to spend about $500.00 to replace the gaskets and have good piece of mind,or,not replace them,then one morning go to start the engine and "BOOM",you now have to spend about $3500.00 for a new engine!

 

I've owned a 97 f-150 4.2 for about 7 yrs now and have 197.000 miles on it and just now I'm having intake problems with it, I think they are very dependable trucks, Haven't heard about a chevrolet going like that. with nothing done to it.