Ford 5.4L Modular V8: Full Overview

The Ford 5.4L Modular V8 engine, part of Ford’s Modular engine family, is known for its robust performance, reliability, and versatility.

This engine has been widely used in a variety of vehicles, including trucks, SUVs, and performance cars, making it a staple in Ford’s lineup for many years. This guide provides an in-depth look at the Ford 5.4L Modular V8, including its history, design, specifications, variants, and applications.

History and Development

The Ford 5.4L Modular V8 engine was introduced in 1997 as part of the Modular engine family, which also includes the 4.6L and 6.8L V10 engines.

The 5.4L engine was designed to provide more power and torque for heavier vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, while maintaining the modularity and efficiency of its smaller counterparts.

Ford 5.4L Modular Design and Features

The 5.4L Modular V8 engine features a modern design with advanced engineering elements for improved performance and durability. Key design elements include:

Configuration: V8
Displacement: 5.4 liters (330 cubic inches)
Block and Heads: Cast iron block with aluminum or cast iron heads (depending on the variant)
Valvetrain: Single overhead camshaft (SOHC) or dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) with variable valve timing (in some variants)
Fuel System: Sequential multi-port electronic fuel injection
Ignition System: Coil-on-plug ignition for precise spark control
Lubrication System: Wet sump

Ford 5.4L Modular Specifications

Here are the general specifications for the Ford 5.4L Modular V8 engine:

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company
Model	5.4L Modular V8
Configuration	V8
Displacement	5.4 liters (330 cubic inches)
Bore x Stroke	3.55 in x 4.17 in (90.2 mm x 106 mm)
Compression Ratio	8.4:1 to 10.5:1 (varies by variant)
Power Output	260 to 550 hp (varies by variant)
Torque	350 to 510 lb-ft (varies by variant)
Fuel Type	Gasoline
Fuel System	Sequential multi-port electronic fuel injection
Ignition System	Coil-on-plug
Weight	Approximately 600 lbs

If you are interested you should read about the Ford 5.0L Coyote

Ford 5.4L Modular Performance and Variants

The Ford 5.4L Modular V8 engine has several variants, each tailored to specific performance and operational requirements:

SOHC 2-Valve (2V):
- Power Output: 260 hp at 4,500 RPM
- Torque: 350 lb-ft at 2,500 RPM
- Notable Features: Used in Ford F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator
SOHC 3-Valve (3V):
- Power Output: 300 hp at 5,000 RPM
- Torque: 365 lb-ft at 3,750 RPM
- Notable Features: Variable camshaft timing (VCT), used in Ford F-150 and Expedition
DOHC 4-Valve (4V):
- Power Output: 385 hp at 5,750 RPM
- Torque: 385 lb-ft at 4,500 RPM
- Notable Features: Used in high-performance applications like the Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R
Supercharged DOHC (Shelby GT500):
- Power Output: 500 to 550 hp
- Torque: 480 to 510 lb-ft
- Notable Features: Used in the Ford Shelby GT500, features a supercharger for increased power output

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Applications

The Ford 5.4L Modular V8 engine is used in a variety of vehicles, including:

Ford F-150: Provides robust power and torque for towing and hauling.
Ford Expedition: Delivers strong performance for large SUV applications.
Lincoln Navigator: Offers luxury and performance in a full-size SUV.
Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R: High-performance sports car variant with the 4V DOHC engine.
Ford Shelby GT500: High-performance muscle car with a supercharged 5.4L engine.
Ford E-Series Vans: Used for commercial applications requiring strong, reliable power.

Maintenance and Performance Upgrades

Maintaining the Ford 5.4L Modular V8 engine involves regular inspections and servicing to ensure longevity and performance. Key maintenance tasks include:

Oil Changes: Regular oil changes are essential for engine health.
Spark Plug Replacement: Ensuring efficient ignition and combustion.
Fuel System Maintenance: Keeping the fuel injection system clean and functional.
Air Filter Replacement: Ensuring optimal airflow and engine performance.
Belt and Hose Inspections: Regular checks for wear and replacement as necessary.

For those looking to enhance performance, various aftermarket parts and upgrades are available:

Cold Air Intakes: Improve airflow and increase power output.
Performance Exhaust Systems: Enhance exhaust flow and improve horsepower and torque.
Superchargers and Turbochargers: Significant power increases through forced induction.
ECU Tuning: Optimize the engine’s performance parameters for greater power and efficiency.
Camshaft Upgrades: Enhance valve timing for improved performance.

Ford 5.4L Modular Price

The price of a Ford 5.4L Modular V8 engine can vary based on several factors, including whether it is new, rebuilt, or used, and any additional features or modifications. As of 2024, prices generally range from: