The 1997 F150 4.2 is a direct swap into a 00 3.8 correct? im interested in what parts i will need but i can most likely find a write up, im looking for what kind of power gains i could be expecting?

 

Not direct but close. you have to change your engine balance to internally balanced. Pick up a 4.2 shortblock and toss your mustang stuff on, tune it and call it a day. You could expect around 210hp/245tq

 

Not bad, thanks. the 4.2 is still a V6 correct?

 

Id say yes the 4.6 starts the v8's

 

it takes to mods better than our 3.8's right?

 

maybe slightly, it can flow a lot more air then out 3.8's though, so it would make since if it does.
OP you have to use a 01+ harmonic balancer, 01+ flywheel, and 01+ oil pan with the 4.2 shortblock, other than that you can reuse all of your mustang stuff(heads, intakes, cam(the stock 4.2 cam is slightly better than the stock 3.8 cam, so if it's in the shortblock go ahead and use it.)etc.)

 

Would a 4.2 hook up wit a 1996 body style as well?