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4.6 to 5.4 Swap

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Old 07-27-2004, 12:22 PM
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Exclamation 4.6 to 5.4 Swap

Sorry if this has been posted before. I searched but found only info on swapping a 5.4 into a 98 or older. I have a 2002 xcab with a 4.6. I want to get a 99+ 5.4 and put it in. Now, I have heard that everything is compatable from the 4.6. Is the only difference the short block? Can I use the same heads and exhaust manifolds? Can I use the stock computer? Basically, what has to replaced or refitted to make this swap work? Thanks for the help.

JB
 
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Old 07-27-2004, 03:17 PM
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Your going to be better off in all ways just selling it and finding one w/ the 5.4 from the factory. All of the drivetrain behind the motor is different, and a different computer. By the time you factor in buying these parts and the time/labor installing them. You MAY be able to get the comp flashed to accept the 5.4, I don't know. You could bolt it to your existing drivetrain, but the 5.4 comes w/ a stronger tranny and most of the time a stronger rear. good luck whatever you do. It's not hard to find an ext. cab 5.4 for sale.
 
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Old 07-27-2004, 03:47 PM
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Thanks for the advice, but I have already put a lot of money into this truck and I would hate to sell it. I was not aware that the tranny was any different, and I thought all f150s came with the standard 8.8. I can get a new computer for the 5.4. I just need to know if my heads and exahust manifolds and all the bolt ons will work properly. Do the heads have the same size valves? I plan on doing this in a weekend, with my associates helping of course. I want to have a nice game plan laid out before I get ***** deep and cant turn back. Thanks again.

JB
 
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Old 07-27-2004, 08:38 PM
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The tranny, driveshaft, and rear end are the same! These trucks only come with the 4R70W transmission or the 4R100W. They only put the 4R100 in the 5.4s with the 7700 package, all others use the 4R70W.

I'm not sure about the bolt-ons like the alternator, P/S, A/C, etc, but I am sure that the driveline is the same.

But, tdister's right about it costing a lot of money, and maybe it's not worth it.
 
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Old 07-27-2004, 10:52 PM
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Could've sworn the 5.4's came w/ the E4OD. Thanks for the correction. Even if it was diff. the engine would still bolt up fine. The 5.4's I've seen had the bigger (9.75?) under them. The 8.8 would work as long as you don't get too crazy w/ it(Ihear some of them come w/ it). Do you have a custom paint job? Just wondering what wouldn't transfer. I've never heard of a case like this where it wouldn't be cheaper/easier-all things equal. Again, thanks for the correction Crazy. I'm still not 100% sure you're correct though. Is this only on later model (02's)?

Edit: OK did a google and apparently on later models (such as yours) that is correct info. Isn't it kinda light? I gues no more badmouthing the "E4OD" in my moms old 02 Exp.
 

Last edited by tdister; 07-27-2004 at 11:06 PM.
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Old 07-27-2004, 11:50 PM
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The E40d was a nice strong tranny. I liked them. I always liked the AODE too. From what I have heard, now this could be wrong, the block and everything are the same. The 5.4 is just a bored and stroked 4.6. Is this correct? I dont see why the alternator, etc would not work. I think everything will be ok. I post on TCCOA.com for the TBird and everyone says its pretty much a painless swap. I dont mind hard work. I am just trying not to get in to it and need 1k in parts, u know. Thanks again.

JB
 
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Old 07-28-2004, 12:32 AM
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Some 5.4s had the 4R100 (E4OD) and some had the 4R70W (AODE).
The 5.4 is essentially a bored and stroked 4.6 but it also has a taller deck height which means the exhaust Y-pipe wont bolt up. The accessories on the front of the engine should all bolt on. You will probably need a belt for a 5.4 though.
I'm not positive if the heads will bolt on or not. I think they are both PI heads and are the same but I would check with a good partsman at a dealer and see if he could tell you. The intake manifold will be different too because of the deck height.
 
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Old 07-28-2004, 12:38 AM
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The blocks are different heights, but that isn't going to affect you. Pretty sure the accessories will be A-OK. Let me know when your done, if you think about it. You might check and see if radiators are the same. I bet they are, but I'd check anyway. I'l

Side tip: The easiest and fastest way to swap the engines is to REMOVE the cab/sheetmetal. Heres something to start you off: http://flatratetech.com/images/nav_how_to.htm
 
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Old 07-28-2004, 07:07 AM
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Arrow

My 1998 f-150 5.4L 4x4 has a E4OD in it....

Just thought I would let you know...
 
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Old 07-28-2004, 08:39 AM
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I have the 4R70W. Will this be a reliable tranny behind a 5.4? I didnt know if the one that came with the 5.4 had any hardened or strengthened parts for a higher torque engine. I knew I would need the intake and the comp.. The crossover pipe wont be a problem. What else will I have to have? Has nobody done this swap before? Thanks again.

JB
 
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