Ok I own a 1998 Ford F150 with the 4.2 V6 as we all know they are the 3.8 but stroked. My question is can I use the ECU from the 3.8 in the 4.2? If so what all needs to be changed. Reason I ask is because they make a programmer for the 3.8 and in essence the 4.2 is a 3.8 but beefier. Can some one shine some insight on this topic for me Okay i know asking about swaping ecu's was really stupied only reason I asked was for programmer price, and the fact i didnt really know that much of a difference was present so in another words HELP!!!!!

 

Why not get a programmer for the 4.2L? There are 3-4 different brands out there that I know of. The 3.8L is tuned for the Mustang. Putting a car ECU in a truck is a bad idea. I highly doubt it'll work- not only are we stroked, but they also have intake differences (we have IMRCs, which are monitored by the ECU, the 3.8L does not have this) and the program/spark/mixture that pulls our 4,000+ lb trucks is TOTALLY different than that of a puny grocery getter

 

Okay so then where can I pick up a tuner resonably priced and a set of shorty headers. Can i use the headers from a 3.8?

 

Shorties are going to kill your low end torque. If you want headers, get long tubes.

For a programmer, the 4 companies we recommend here are Troyer, VMP, PHP, and Diablo.

 

So where would I find some long tubes at a good price. and what all would i be able to retain of the stock exhaust for now

 

MAC is the only company that makes long tubes that'll fit these trucks. You need to find a set for the 3.8L and to get them to fit you have to hammer a spot so the right bank will clear the starter solenoid.

Programmer will run you about $400, search around to see if you have any reputable Ford shops in the area because online orders will have you wait up to 10 months