Windsor or Coyote for Engine Replacement?

General Forum General Discussions
1

I have a 2014 F-150 XLT 2WD with the factory 5.0 engine that lasted 215k miles. It started throwing a P0304 code (misfire on cylinder 4), which I fixed at 105k by replacing the plugs and packs. Did the same fix this time, but instead of solving the issue, it threw more codes.

My trusted mechanic did a compression test: 60 PSI on the strongest cylinder, with the others significantly lower. Looks like it’s time for a new engine.

While pricing engines, I’ve gotten mixed advice. Some shops recommend replacing the Coyote 5.0 with a rebuilt Windsor 5.0, saying it’s “just as good.” Others say to stick with a Coyote. What’s the difference between the two, and does my driving style matter?

For context: I mostly drive on highways or around town, rarely off-road (just grass or dirt, no mud or snow). I tow heavy loads (near max GVWR) about twice a year for ~50 miles. Thanks in advance for your help!

2

If someone suggests putting a Windsor in place of your Coyote for a 2014 F-150, run away fast. Those engines aren’t compatible at all.

3

Avi said:
If someone suggests putting a Windsor in place of your Coyote for a 2014 F-150, run away fast. Those engines aren’t compatible at all.

Thanks for the clarification.

4

I’m not sure what shops you’re talking to, but the 5.0 in your truck is a Coyote. Windsors haven’t been used since the '90s.

5

Aza said:
I’m not sure what shops you’re talking to, but the 5.0 in your truck is a Coyote. Windsors haven’t been used since the '90s.

That’s what I thought. The shops are claiming a Windsor is a viable replacement. I’m not a mechanic, but I always figured you should replace an engine with what it came with unless you’re racing (and I’m definitely not racing).

6

@Jesse
You’re absolutely right. Whoever is telling you a Windsor will work doesn’t know what they’re talking about.

7

Aza said:
@Jesse
You’re absolutely right. Whoever is telling you a Windsor will work doesn’t know what they’re talking about.

Thanks for confirming. Appreciate the help!

8

Just rebuild the Coyote. Trying to swap in a Windsor doesn’t make sense.

9

Corey said:
Just rebuild the Coyote. Trying to swap in a Windsor doesn’t make sense.

I’m seeing a significant price difference in my area between a Windsor and a Coyote. Maybe that’s why they’re pushing the Windsor?

10

@Jesse
A Windsor won’t even fit. You’d need a new wiring harness, engine mounts, ECU, transmission bell housing, and more. By the time you do all that, you’re at or above the cost of a Coyote. Stick with the engine your truck came with.

11

@Corey
Good point. Thanks for breaking it down!

12

Keep it simple: replace the engine with the same model. Don’t introduce unnecessary complications by swapping to a different motor.

13

Lake said:
Keep it simple: replace the engine with the same model. Don’t introduce unnecessary complications by swapping to a different motor.

Will do. Thanks for the advice.

14

Have you checked the heads? It could be valve guides or seats causing the low compression.

15

Teal said:
Have you checked the heads? It could be valve guides or seats causing the low compression.

I’ve heard about the soft valve issue in pre-2015 Coyotes. It’s almost as expensive to pull and rebuild the heads as it is to just get a crate engine. Plus, the warranty on a crate motor is better.

16

Isn’t the Windsor the engine with the nightmare spark plugs?

17

Jory said:
Isn’t the Windsor the engine with the nightmare spark plugs?

Not sure, but replacing plugs and packs on my Coyote was straightforward. The locking clips on the harness were the hardest part.