Down sides of a 4x4 5.4L van!?

[Van try guy]

I’m struggling to find a 7.3 or a V10 unit that it worth converting. I couldn’t find anything in the forum talking about the 5.4l. Where I’m located there are so many great options for 5.4 V8 vans in great shape with low mileage. I was planning on starting my conversation this winter but have had zero luck finding a V10 or 7.3 that’s worth sinking ten of thousands of dollars into. I guess my mental battle now is, do I just suck it up and pull the trigger and get going on a V8 or do I continue to wait to try and find a larger engine unit? I’m not a speed guy by any means but I would like to roll with the flow of traffic with out having to red line continuously! Are there any down falls to the 5.4im not yet aware of?

[Cyrull]

I have a 5.4 and to me its fine, regardless of whatever engine you have you are likely going to be slower than most traffic. When I'm cruising 100-120 KPH I'm usually never over 2.5K RPM, the only time it goes over really is when I accelerate or going up hill and I drive with a lead foot. Not sure what you are looking for but I will be listing my 5.4 4x4 probably in a week or two.

[ctb]

That's big news Cyrull! What are your your plans post SMB? Trailer? Truck Camper? Diesel Pusher? Seems like an excellent time to sell too. Best of luck!

As for the engine question, the search button above will do you wonders...well that and a call to your local Ford Dealer (as I did) and ask the senior mechanic all your questions!

[boywonder]

I have a 5.4L 4x4 E-350 and I'm quite happy with it. Built out it's around 8800 pounds. It's not going to win any drag races but it works for me.


It has 285/17-70s and 3.73 gearing on it and downshifts out of OD on long grades but I'm hesitant to re-gear since I don't want to take an MPG hit, although that may not be impacted much.


I only occasionally pull a very small motorcycle trailer.

[86Scotty]

The only downside to a 4x4 5.4 is that you'll be on this forum with everyone who has a diesel or a V10, which means nothing. Get the best 5.4 candidate you can find and enjoy it! Have you driven one? They aren't slow, they just aren't quick like modern cars are.

[b. rock]

It all depends on your penchant for speed, and your patience. I'd never run one but there's a tunnel just to the west of me at 11,000' where the speed limit is 65 mph. If your mountain passes are slower, maybe not as big of a deal. Later V10s and the 6.0s will get the 5r110 though which adds an extra gear and makes the 4x4 conversion easier as well.

My first E-350 was a V10, I flew to CA to get it and drove it back to CO. Expanding your search helps too.

[Lilnuts2]

Van try guy, If you don't mind extended body window Van this was just posted on the site this morning. Seems like a great deal in not all that far from you.
https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...van-27507.html

[Cyrull]

Originally Posted by ctb

That's big news Cyrull! What are your your plans post SMB? Trailer? Truck Camper? Diesel Pusher? Seems like an excellent time to sell too. Best of luck!!

Anxiously waiting on the delivery of my AWD Transit

[Houstonredrider]

I have no issue with mine. I'm a spirited driver and it work fine. I see some struggle on mountain passes, but that is because I still try to pass everybody. Let it downshift and rev up. I wish it had a 5 or 6 speeds instead of 4, or better yet, a manual. E350 EB, 305/65r18 (33.5") with 4.10 gears.

[arctictraveller]

My 2001 4wd works fine with the 5.4 I re-geared to 410 with 33in tires and while I would like more power, I’m ok with it. At high altitude or steep grades it downshifts, but I just hog the right lane. Mine may be heavier than most at around 9K lbs too.