oh3stang

my 03 stang i bought I knew had a blown head gasket and worst case it needed an engine. I've come across a couple free engines and wondering if it will work and what alterations if any are needed. I know the intake swap will be needed. I can get a 01 f150 4.6 out of the vehicle already or a 03 expedition 4.6 that is still in the vehicle. Should I do anything to them while they are out(water pump, head gaskets,etc).

dawson1112

I see no reason to swap the entire engine just for a blown head gasket.

How many miles on the o3 mustang? More than likely a new set of head gaskets will get you on your way.

Id still grab up both the " free " motors lol .

oh3stang

160k, I changed the oil so I could test to see if the engine was damaged. I know the previous owner and they said the engine never overheated but at idle the engine sounded fine after the oil change but when you give it some gas I sometimes would hear a little bit of random valve knocking.Not sure if this would clear out or not. I didn't run it too long. Not sure if it is due to the oil not completely clear due to a little light milkyness left. The engine is not missing or anything. I don't want to do the head gaskets to find out I need an engine. I thought about going the Blue Devil route and seal the head to at least see if the engine is ok and then replace the head gaskets. Just trying not to do any unnecessary labor.

Richardmustang91

If looking to add more low end torque and more RWHP I'd opt to do an engine swap

oh3stang

Thanks for the info. I am in the process of doing the swap. Tried the blue devil and it didn't work. Engine started knocking bad. PO must of overheated the engine too bad. Engine is almost out, dang there are some tricky bolts to take out. Looking forward to getting it on the road.