2005 and 2003 engine compatibility

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captain1997

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I was wondering if a 2005 expo 5.4 will work in a 2003 expo with a 5.4??

I have a wrecked low low mileage 05 expo that I want to pull the motor and trans out of and put in a 2003 expo that has a blown 5.4.
Does anyone know if it’s just a matter of pull,plug and play?
Thanks ahead of time for any info
 

Hamfisted

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Really too many differences between the '03 2V motor and the '05 3V motor to make it worth while. You would be better off finding another '03 or '04 2V motor for the '03 Expy.
 

JExpedition07

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Your 03’ doesn’t have an ECM capable of running the 5.4 3V variable cam timing and electric throttle body. Very different powertrains with different computers. The 2005 is also electric throttle by wire (more ECM and computer stuff) vs a throttle cable on your 03. In short no.
 
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TomB985

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You could strip the engine to the short block and transfer the heads with all the accessories and make it work, but probably more trouble than it would be worth. Unfortunately it's virtually impossible to control a 3V engine in a chassis intended for the 2V version.
 

1955moose

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Captain, I'm going to concur with the others, life's short, find a motor 03 or so that's a 100 percent drop in fit. Anything can be made to work, if you've got the smarts and the time, but don't. Unless you want to bury yourself away from the wife, some do, it's a tough enough job, when it's plug and play. You'll be cashing in favors from friends and smart mechanics, and even that might not do it. Been there, done that, I've got the T-shirt! Do yourself a favor and replace the same mill, or move on to the next car/truck, and use your time/money for the next project. I hear classic cars/motorcycles are fun! How bout a 41 Caddie convertible? Or a 67 Triumph Bonnie? Just saying!

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