So I was on the Ford website, and noticed that the 4.0 v-6, and the 5.4 v8 for the gt500 are both cast iron. But, the 4.6 is aluminun. Could someone explain to me why they would do that and what are the advantages/disadvantages.

 

Advantages:

Aluminum is a lot lighter. For this size block, probably 80-90 lbs lighter than cast iron. Lighter is good for performance and fuel economy.

Aluminum is also a very good heat conductor. An aluminum engine is easier to keep cool in performance applications. It also warms up faster, which is good for fuel economy and emissions.


Disadvantages:

More expensive than an iron block

Sometimes not as strong or durable as an Iron block (though this depends on many factors other than just the material) The block on these engines is plenty strong though.

It's easier to cross-thread a bolt and damage the threads in an aluminum block compared to an iron one. That's not an issue unless you're a sloppy mechanic though.

Cast Iron has an ability to naturally dampen vibration. That can make a cast iron engine quieter than an aluminum one, at least under some circumstances. (This is why precision machine tools are also made with cast iron)

 

the gt500 should've had aluminum motor...

 

NEVER lol you can build an Iron block to be basically dynamite proof ^^.

Att. Andrew