98 SOHC - Snapped Crank - need new motor

[Scott S]

Well my 140,000km babied 98 EX LTD 4.0 SOHC 4X4 snapped the crank at the balancer.

Ran 100 ft and poof.

A local Ford tech had a quick look and said they had never seen this before. I did some searching and this was pretty common on the 98's.

The dealer needs between 3000 and 7000 to replace it. Low side is used with 110K and the high side is ford rebuilt crate drop in. Well with a son just starting university the high side is out for sure and even the low side is stretch.

I'm contemplating doing the swap myself and have done many vintage V8 swaps before. I have an engine crane and extensive tools. Just never done anything past the 70's.

Should I give it a go or do I need some specialized tools?

Any Gotcha's?

Tips?

Now here I sit with a dilema. I need to replace the motor but I want to get the best year that will bolt in. My 98 had problems earlier on with the tensioners and now the severed snout. I don't want to go back to square one with another problem year so I was wondering if I could go newer and if so what would the issues be?

Any one dropped a newer motor in their X?

Thanks everyone for any assistance!

 

[IZwack]

Thats interesting - I have a 98

I have about 225km on it

 

[Scott S]

They snap right behind the balancer at the end of the keyway.

They tend to fail by 100K miles, If they make that then they are usually good to go.

When I did some research I was alarmed that they all are exactly the same break! I'd say a quality issue for sure.