I know there are better engines out there, but I can probably get a 6.5 or 6.2 for really cheap (like, I could buy 8-10 of them for the cost of one 7.3).

So, my question is, would one fit under the hood of the wife's E350? It has a 5.4 now. HP and torque seem pretty matched, so assuming I could get the engine and trans to marry up, could the stock trans handle the diesel?

Thanks for the advice... I've been out of the business for almost 20 years, so my knowledge has pretty much reverted back down to noob status.

 

If you are deadset on a 6.2/6.5 I would suggest a whole setup from a '91-95 Chevy 1-ton van. (or 91-93 in 2500/3500 pickups) They are still mechanical engines, yet have the 4L80E auto trans with standalone controller. This is the way I would go for any heavy work. A well-built TH700 would do a good job if its more of a grocery-getter. (no controller req'd)

I used to work in a shop where each mechanic had a pet project going, and it always seemed easier to use the whole system from a donor vehicle than to try and mix'n'match.

The 6.2/6.5 is definitely smaller and lighter than the 7.3L. Should be similar in size to the 5.4L, but heavier.

Good Luck!

 

Thanks for the reply!

I certainly wouldn't say I'm "dead-set" on the engine, I know from 8 years as an Army mechanic how mediocre they can be under a heavy workload. They are pretty much just junk in a heavy-as-lead HMMWV, but generally ran fine and reliably in the lighter CUCVs. I wouldn't even consider them for a pulling or heavy off-road vehicle, but I'd really like to get the wife's van off of gas dependence. I think, if it would fit, a 6.2/6.5 would do fine for running around town.

Really, it's the price-point driving me to consider using them. Even if it only lasted 50K miles, even multiple replacements would be far cheaper than just buying a 7.3 (what I'd really want, though). Of course, that's only true if it wouldn't cost $3-4K to put it in in the first place...

 

I wouldnt waste your time with a gm 6.5 or 6.2 swap in my opinion they are not great engines (based off of the chevy 400 gas with diesel rotating assembly). if your going to swap in a GOOD diesel for fairly cheap. opt for a cummins 12v, a much better engine, and it will fit in the E350. go to FORDCUMMINS.com good luck!!