I have the opportunity to buy two 2008 f-150s for $1500, one has a blown motor and the other has a bad transmission. So I am going to pull both engines out, swap the transmissions and put it back in. While I have it out I want to bullet proof the engine. I’m just looking to see around how much it would cost for new hoses, new oil, coolant, and what a decent bullet proofing kit would cost. Any help would be appreciated thanks!

 

What engine? If they are 5.4s, you should replace the timing chain, phasers, etc and replace the oil pump with a Melling. Search for Makuloco videos to see exactly how to do it.

 

5.4 3v tritons. And thanks for the advice! Do you have a price range you think that would be in?

 

The video has info on what to buy.

 

Part 1 of 4, watch it on YouTube, links to all parts and tools and parts 2 through 4 are in the description:


Also watch this one:

 

I also suggest that you remove the cam bearing caps and inspect the cam bearings/journals for wear. The cam doesn't actually have bearings. It rides in the aluminum head. You have a couple of spare heads if you need them.

 

I keep seeing folks suggesting the melling and not to FordRacing HV pump. - is this only because of cost?

I did the complete timing job on my 5.4 to include the oil pump and i chose to stick with Ford. The truck no longer ticks like a diesel and boy does she drive (accelerate) so much better afterwards with no issues two years later.

 

The Melling is suggested because that's what Ford Tech Makuloco recommends. That is the ONLY non-Ford major part he recommends for this job. I have no idea why he specifically recommends it.

 

I would suggest going to Freedom Racing and getting yourself a Motorcraft timing set with locked out cam phasers. You will need to have the VVT turned off in the PCM tune. My friend is a Ford master tech and he suggested using the older metal chain tensioners from the 2 valve motors as an upgrade from the plastic ones. He said the older metal ones are much more reliable (something about the gasket blowing out and dumping oil pressure). Also install a mechanical oil pressure gauge- the one on your dash is not a real gauge; its an idiot light in disguise... Many of these engines are lost to low oil pressure that is not caught in time because the owner believes he has good oil pressure when he doesn't. If your going to stick with VVT make sure that you are getting the latest and greatest Motercraft units as there have been several revisions. Don't forget to replace your oil filter housing gasket and rear main seal while you have the engine out. That's all i can think of right now... Good Luck!