2003 Expedition - oil leak from head gasket - need advice

[danno73]

Hi all!
Just found out a few days ago that the oil leaking down onto my starter is coming from a faulty head gasket. It is a 2003 with 140k miles, so I was thinking the best option would be to put a new (reman/rebuilt/used) engine in it instead of trying to sell it and buy a replacement truck.
So, my question is - where should I start looking for a new engine? Look for a salvaged truck with good engine? Have mine rebuilt (and check if head/block is warped before replacing head gasket)? Or get a reman one from Ford?

Thanks for any info!
Dan

 

[Captain Morgan]

Danno73, are you 100% sure that it is a HEAD gasket and not a VALVE COVER gasket?

I wouldn't just buy another used engine and incur the labor and cost to do the swap. If I went that route I would get a refurb that has new bearing, rings and valves etc and has known good tolerances, passes pressure tests and has some warranty.

There's a post from earlier today where someone is looking at summit racing reman engine and they have a lot of choices. Why not find that thread and just give it a read as part of your consideration.


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[danno73]

Yeah, I am sure. The mechanic showed me where it was leaking under the hoist and said it was time for a new truck.

But I like my truck, and I can't find another black one with lower miles and a good price, so I think a new engine is the best option.

Probably just get one from Ford with a warranty and have them install it so I don't run into anymore issues.

 

[diesel3]

Yeah, I am sure. The mechanic showed me where it was leaking under the hoist and said it was time for a new truck.

But I like my truck, and I can't find another black one with lower miles and a good price, so I think a new engine is the best option.

Probably just get one from Ford with a warranty and have them install it so I don't run into anymore issues.

op. i have a 1999 expedition with the 4.6L triton windsor, 152k on the clock with the same problem. our mechanic is doing our heads, gaskets, machine work and all for 1200. about the same price as a used triton 4.6 in kentucky. a new/reman with 3yr warranty is 2500 +530 for core. my motor runs sweet, so we opted to have the gaskets done instead of the replacement motor. good luck with what ever route you take and keep us posted