I'm also leaning toward the cam phasers, because 10w40 oil is too viscous to flow freely thru the VCT system's narrow oil passages under all driving conditions.

 

How narrow are the passages? I doubt the 10w40 had anything to do with it. The vct solenoids have failed before on cars running 5w20.

Now if it's some cheap 10w40 and not changed often enough, it could cause sludge which will plug the vct solenoid. I bet the cam phasers are fine, it's the vct solenoid that's bad.

 

They're tiny.
I've also read about cam phasers failing with the recommended 5w20 multi-blend oil. All I'm saying is cam phasers have a greater chance of failing with straight 10w40 vs. the recommended 5w20 multi-blend due to 10w40's higher viscosity, especially during cold starts in the winter.

 

OK so i spoke to a few mechanics/mustang shops, and bottom line is that i most likely need my engine replaced. They still don't know exactly what is wrong with it but most are saying that it would be cheaper to buy a used engine and install it rather than taking yours out fixing it and putting it back in.
So if you guys know were i can find a used engine for under 2000 (doesnt have to be the 4.6 3v will take anything with some good power) please let me know.

 

Have they got any prove to make such an assesment? Have they taken off the valve covers to support their claims? It sound a lot like cam phasers....have they replaced them?

 

So they listened to it and determined you need a new engine? I would take it to a different shop or even a ford dealer.

It could be as simple as needing new vct solenoids, which are easy to replace once you remove the valve covers. Replacing the cam phasers is more involved and requires the special wedge on a wire tool.

 

They dont know what is wrong with it, but they are saying that either way it will cost more to fix than replace. The ford dealership confirmed this as well. I am still not giving up i would rather fix it than replace it so i will be taking it to another mechanic. If any one knows a good place near Beverly hills/ los angeles please let me know i cant tow very far.

 

So the car is still not running? You might have a major problem then. Bad cam phasers or vct solenoids just cause valve train noise. It shouldn't cause it not to start.