So it looks like my old work truck is finally calling it quits (rod knock). It’s a 2007 4.6 XLT with 245K miles, so I definitely got my money’s worth. I’m not thrilled about spending crazy money on a new truck, especially since I use this one for rough work and anything nice would just get trashed fast. Not sure I can handle that heartbreak, so I’m thinking about swapping the engine instead.
Anyone done this before? Is it best to go through a Ford dealership or try something like Jasper?
Also open to reasons why this might be a bad idea. Just keep in mind, I don’t care about looks—just want the best value for a reliable work truck.
If you do it, make sure you go with a shop that knows what they’re doing. I’ve seen too many swaps go wrong because someone bit off more than they could chew. Dealers charge the most, but at least you get a warranty and (hopefully) competent work. If you have a shop near you that specializes in engine swaps, that could be a good option too.
Besides making sure you pick a solid shop, if you’re sourcing your own engine, I’d recommend TriStar out of Baldwin, WI. I used them for years when I was in the parts business. Can’t say much about Jasper, but I had a bad experience with ATK. Do your research and you’ll be fine. I get where you’re coming from—I’m not ready to deal with a huge truck payment either.
I’ve been around swapped engines before (haven’t done one myself), and if you can afford it, it’s usually worth it. I’d go with a dealer or a well-known engine shop. Jasper makes good engines, just make sure the shop you use has experience with your truck.
Depending on where you are, you might want to check out Royalty Auto Service or Dave’s Engines.
I’d look for a speed shop. The dealerships near me can’t even do a basic oil change right—they messed up my 2020 twice. I do everything myself now. Also heard horror stories of missing parts after warranty work. Overpriced and unreliable, at least where I live. Good luck!
Around here, that kind of job would run you at least $12K. A remanufactured 4.6L engine fully assembled is about $5K shipped, but labor will cost a fortune. Plus, you’ll probably want to replace stuff like coils since you’re already paying for the install. Might as well get new parts while you’re in there.
The real question is—do you think your truck is worth that much more than just buying another one?
If I were you, I’d check what’s available within 15K miles of me for $15K or less before committing to the swap.
I’ve had two Jasper rebuilds, and both were great. First was a 327 Chevy I put in a 1965 Impala SS convertible. First thing I did was void the warranty by swapping the cam for something more aggressive—ran awesome! Ended up putting that motor in a Trans Am later when its engine failed.
Second was a 3.0L for a ‘90s Ford Ranger. We put 100K miles on it before trading it in for a new truck—the worst one I ever owned. A 2006 Silverado. Just thinking about it makes me mad.
@Phoenix
Appreciate the insight! Sorry about that Silverado—I had one too, and it wasn’t great either.
Your experience with Jasper makes me feel a little better. Seems like the key factor is who does the install. Did you research the shop you used, or was it one Jasper recommended?