4.6 to 5.4 swap? BILL....HELP!!!

[Power Hungry]

Mechanically, the engines are relatively identical and yes, the tuning has changed over the years to increase power output. However, it's not all that significant.

The PCM code you indicated comes out to a ODAJ0D9.HEX calibration strategy. There is a 5.4L counterpart for that strategy which is ODAJ0E3.HEX (VMF3, Part Number 2L3A-12A650-VD) which is what we'd end up using as the base for the calibration. Not a huge deal, except for the PATS of course. We can either completely disable it or we can leave it intact but you may have to go to the dealer to have the keys reset. If you go with a programmer, we might be able to avoid the whole PATS issue entirely by getting a valid read from your PCM and using the PATS information to build you a set of files that are PATS compatible.

Let me know how it goes.

[CageFighter_Dan]

sounds like its just up to your mechanic now to get it back to a physical driving and running stage, good luck , let us know how it goes, I'd be curious to know what this mechanic charges you after everything said and done, especially after his many issues of not wanting to listen to your advice through out the build

[RobbyMartin]

Originally Posted by Power Hungry

Mechanically, the engines are relatively identical and yes, the tuning has changed over the years to increase power output. However, it's not all that significant.

The PCM code you indicated comes out to a ODAJ0D9.HEX calibration strategy. There is a 5.4L counterpart for that strategy which is ODAJ0E3.HEX (VMF3, Part Number 2L3A-12A650-VD) which is what we'd end up using as the base for the calibration. Not a huge deal, except for the PATS of course. We can either completely disable it or we can leave it intact but you may have to go to the dealer to have the keys reset. If you go with a programmer, we might be able to avoid the whole PATS issue entirely by getting a valid read from your PCM and using the PATS information to build you a set of files that are PATS compatible.

Let me know how it goes.

So let me understand correctly. If the Gryphon can tune up to 25 hp then the 1997 5.4 with stock hp of 235 can now possibly be 260 hp. And with a 2001 5.4 with stock hp of 260 can now possibly be 285.
Can you tune the 1997 5.4 to be, or close to, the same as a tuned 2001 5.4 @ 285 hp?
I guess the point I'm trying to make is what year engine to start with to get the most Hp and Tq from. It seems like a waste of time to start with the '97 5.4 (235hp) if its not much better than a stock 2002 4.6 (231hp) that I'm trying to replace. Wouldn't starting with a newer year stock motor with 260 hp be better?

[RobbyMartin]

I just read an article and "Power Improved Heads" are what gave these engines the extra HP and TQ starting in '99. I am glad I turned down the '97 engine and opted for a later model.



http://www.mustangandfords.com/techa...ord_modular_v8

[Power Hungry]

As you've discovered, there are minor differences in the engines from a performance standpoint and this is where some of the power gains come from as the years progressed. Tuning plays a small part in this as well, but not nearly as much as you'd think. This is why we are still able to achieve reasonable power gains over successive years.

You definitely are better off with the late model engine, even with the little bit of difficulty you're having at this point.

[RobbyMartin]

I won't be satisfied until the newer engine is in and running. It should have the original 4.6 PCM and harness installed but you never know with this guy. Should I wait to purchase the Gryphon after I know what PCM is installed or can I go ahead and purchase it now? It'll be a 5.4 engine with a 4.6 PCM.

How long will it take to get the tuner if you received payment today? At least I'll have that part taken care of. Then after I get that, it'll be 4-6 weeks before the custom 5.4 performance tune will be ready?

[Power Hungry]

Robby,

You can order the tuner now and I can send one tomorrow. UPS doesn't pick up this Thursday (or next, for that matter) so if not tomorrow then it'll be Monday. I will need to know at some point which PCM you're running, but that's not important at this time and doesn't affect which programmer we send.

Because your situation is unique, we'd make special considerations for your tunes. It's similar to having a disabled vehicle in your case.

Take care.