Ford’s small inline 6-cylinder engine powered millions of Falcons, Comets, Mustangs, and other models during the 1960s and 1970s. They are durable little engines, and when properly rebuilt, they will last many years to come. FORD INLINE SIX CYLINDER HEAD INSTALLATION:Originally, Ford used steel-shim head gaskets that required a sealer on the block and the […]
Mustang Engine Swap Guide
In this article, I cover the common engine swaps for first-generation Mustangs that increase performance potential. My philosophy is “There’s no replacement for displacement” when it comes to increasing performance, but the key is how you get it. I discuss the tradeoffs of various options along with how good a given scenario is in terms […]
4.6L & 5.4L Ford Rebuild Cheat Sheet: Before You Begin
When Ford introduced the 4.6L single overhead cam (SOHC) “Modular” V-8 in 1991 in the Lincoln Town Car, it took Ford enthusiasts by surprise because it was unlike any other Ford V-8 ever made. It wasn’t like the classic FE-Series 427 SOHC V-8 that Ford had unsuccessfully conceived for NASCAR competition in the 1960s, although […]
How to Disassemble Ford 4.6L & 5.4L Engines – Step-by-Step
Because the Modular V-8 has so many different applications, it is impossible to detail all the removal and installation specifics here. However, I can touch on what you can expect across a broad range of Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury applications. Gone are the days when you could spend an afternoon pulling this and yanking that, […]
4.6L & 5.4L Ford Rebuild Cheat Sheet: Selecting Parts
Parts selection is one of the most important elements of engine building because all parts must operate in concert with one another. Never has this been more crucial than with Ford’s Modular V-8 because of the many variations produced since 1991. You can interchange a lot of parts with these engines if you have the […]
How to Assemble a Ford 4.6L & 5.4L Engines – Step-by-Step
Once you have disassembled the engine, selected the best parts, and finished the machine work, it may seem as if the toughest part of a rebuild is over, but it isn’t. As with every other aspect of a Modular engine rebuild, the assembly is challenging and requires your closest attention to detail. If you overlook […]
Ford AOD Transmission Installation and Swapping Guide
Although transmission installation and adjustment appears straightforward, you should take an orderly, methodical approach to ensure success. You’re either swapping in an AOD, AODE, or 4R70W, or you’re removing and reinstalling one. Size up the job before you get started and make a checklist of what’s needed. Few things are more frustrating than taking your […]
Ford AODE/4R70W Guide: Calibration, Building, Troubleshooting
Ford’s AOD evolved into a highly successful mechanically modulated transmission from its 1980 introduction until production ended in 1991. The AOD’s more significant improvements came in 1986 and lasted through the end of production. Ford developed the AODE and 4R70W to achieve cohesive engine and transmission function in 1991. This Tech Tip is From […]
Ford C4 and C6 Transmission Trouble Shooting Guide
It’s good to have a source to guide you when you’re struggling with troublesome transmission function. You can be methodical and cover all the bases during a rebuild and still things can go wrong. This is where a step-by-step approach to the problem can help get you steered in the right direction. As with just about […]
How to Install Ford C4 and C6 Transmissions: Step by Step
Although I focus great attention on how a transmission is built, installation and proper adjustment after the unit is installed are just as important to durability and longevity. To get longevity and durability, a transmission must be properly installed and adjusted, which means a methodical approach to getting a fresh transmission into service. Let’s begin […]