How about the 4.0 SOHC V-6 in an F-150?
Here's an idea...
Ford's having fuel economy problems, and we all know that the 4.2 is exceptionally hard on gas for what it is supposed to be. Why not change the engine in the production line to the 4.0L SOHC V6 that they use in the Ranger Edge. It gives over 210 horsepower from the factory (over 5 more than the 4.2) and give ~245 lbs of torque (5 LESS than the 4.2). All of this for a 35LB weight savings over the 4.2, smoother running (thanks to the OHC), higher reving (again with the OHC), and better gas mileage.
Granted, there are development issues here. IIRC, the bellhousing on the 4.0 isn't compatable with the 4R70/75/100 transmissions, so you'd need an adapter. However, it is a well known fact that the 3.8's are going to start disappearing (2003 mustang base engine is the Duratec V6, DOHC, 200/200, and others will be getting the same treatment) and that the 4.2 is nothing more than a slightly beffier, stroked version of the same engine.
I don't know about you, but, I'm satisfied (in most circumstances, and considering that it is the base engine) with the power of the 4.2 for its intended use. If the 4.0 can deliver the same, or not too dissimilar power for less gas, I'm all for it. Last I heard, the 4.2 was due for another upgrade for the 2002/2003 timeframe. It was going to get a different fuel system that was supposed to give it ~12 more HP and a few more lbs of torque. Nothing to jump up and down about, but, a better base to start from for mods. That upgrade was also supposed to give a 1mpg fuel savings.
I've got to learn to write shorter posts.
My .02 cents.
Ford's having fuel economy problems, and we all know that the 4.2 is exceptionally hard on gas for what it is supposed to be. Why not change the engine in the production line to the 4.0L SOHC V6 that they use in the Ranger Edge. It gives over 210 horsepower from the factory (over 5 more than the 4.2) and give ~245 lbs of torque (5 LESS than the 4.2). All of this for a 35LB weight savings over the 4.2, smoother running (thanks to the OHC), higher reving (again with the OHC), and better gas mileage.
Granted, there are development issues here. IIRC, the bellhousing on the 4.0 isn't compatable with the 4R70/75/100 transmissions, so you'd need an adapter. However, it is a well known fact that the 3.8's are going to start disappearing (2003 mustang base engine is the Duratec V6, DOHC, 200/200, and others will be getting the same treatment) and that the 4.2 is nothing more than a slightly beffier, stroked version of the same engine.
I don't know about you, but, I'm satisfied (in most circumstances, and considering that it is the base engine) with the power of the 4.2 for its intended use. If the 4.0 can deliver the same, or not too dissimilar power for less gas, I'm all for it. Last I heard, the 4.2 was due for another upgrade for the 2002/2003 timeframe. It was going to get a different fuel system that was supposed to give it ~12 more HP and a few more lbs of torque. Nothing to jump up and down about, but, a better base to start from for mods. That upgrade was also supposed to give a 1mpg fuel savings.
I've got to learn to write shorter posts.
My .02 cents.


