I was wondering if anyone could help me out. I have the dreaded 97 f-150 4.2L with well over 200K miles on it. I know that i need to be thinking about a new motor here pretty soon. I am hoping to replace it with a bigger engine but i dont know if it can be done. i understand that i am going to have to replace mytranny and my computer and in order to pass smog it has to be a 97 or newer motor. But i have been told that the electircal is hell. If i replace my motor to a bigger model can my wiring be hooked back up so that my stock instrument panel will work? i live in California where the smog laws are a pain in the *** to say the least and in order to pass smog all my warning lights have to function. I NEED HELP!! Can i change the engine in my truck and still pass smog???
Courtney

1997 F-150 4.2L 4x2
7 1/2" Fabtech lift with bilstien shocks
315/75/16 BFG AT/KOs
4.56 gears
Edelbrok exhaust
K&N Intake

 

It can be done, legally.

You have mail.

 

I have the same set up and would like to swap in a 96 5.8. Can you help me too? Thank you in advance.

 

I don't know about NJ but in CA we are only allowed to swap to an equal or later year model.

 

I thought the 5.8 was available that year. ?? I have a nice 351 that is a torq monster, it is a long rod motor, perfect for a truck.

 

HI! I also need info like you.
I am in process of installing 2005 4.6 2v I have the engine ,Transmission,PCM,
wiring harness, ignition key, Pats transponder.Do I also need special tune if I
do not have dash instruments from the doner vehicle?
Thank's in advance.
Steve

 

The instrument cluster issue may be insurmountable.

There are two possible resolutions. First, do a little research, you can buy wiring kits that allow the installation if such an engine and transmission in a street rod so that might be a possibility. You could also look into using a '97 or '98 PCM.
The dash instruments in these years were not tied into the PCM, at least to a lesser degree. I know that in order to put a Lightning engine with PCM into either of those years, one has to change the cluster and dash wiring harness as well as the engine bay harness, etc.

 

This thread is 7 years old and probably not related to your situation much. Welcome to the site next time start a new thread infact maybe you should just do that..

 

oops