Well apparently there are two different blocks.

97-01 F75E-AC/AF casting
02-Present 2L1E-A3C casting also known as "NVH"

All of the 5.4L blocks were built in the Windsor plant except for the DOHC and
Lightning variations that were built in the Romeo plant. The Romeo engines used the
Windsor architecture so there is none of the confusing differences as the 4.6L.

Now what I can't figure out is the difference between the early and late 5.4L blocks?

 

Just a guess - "NVH" stands for "noise, vibration, harshness". Maybe the block was improved to help with those factors?

 

"2002
Ford introduced a new "NVH" block in 2002. It’s a 2L1E-A3C casting that was apparently designed to reduce "noise, vibration and harshness (NVH)." We haven’t actually seen one yet, but the Ford microfiche says it can’t be retrofitted for earlier applications, so there must be some significant differences between the early and late blocks that will cause problems if they’re interchanged. Given this warning from Ford, we probably ought to keep these blocks separate until we know more about the differences.
"

From: http://www.enginebuildermag.com/Arti...he_ford_5.aspx

Note that I did NOT use www.lmgtfy.com as a sign of respect

MGD

 

With the date on that article being from 4/2003, the statement about not retrofitting may or may not be still pertinent. I think more research would be wise.

 

I have been reading for nearly a week now and I still can't find info on differences...

What I'm wanting to know is if I can use a pre-02 block for a 3v build or should I look for a 04-up 3 valve engine.

 

I may be talking out my @$$ but I don't think I'd use anything for a 3v build except a 3v block.

 

Maybe try posting on one of the lightning boards or talk to Patrick when you take your truck to get tuned. Most of the L guys that go built use the NVH block. I have read some where that the NVH block is heavier.

 

Well i might have lucked out and found one here local. I bought a set of 3valve heads to have sent off to get ported and polished, and it turns out the same guy has a 5.4 3valve shortblock he wants to get rid off.

Got the heads for $100, so hopefully I can pick the shortblock up cheap also....