Ford 2.8 listed as one of worst car engines of all time

[85_Ranger4x4]

There have been better engines over time, and the 2.8 heads weren't bulletproof by any means.

The 4.0's were didn't have the greatest rap on anti-head cracking technology either.

They bypassed the gasket eating GM V-6's that were massed produced in large enough quanities to feed mechanics families for years to come, as well as the beloved 3.8/4.2 Ford gasket eaters.

 

[NixRanger]

my 2.8 has been a great runner too, though a previous one suffered a cracked head due to overheating - my fault 'cause I didn't maintain cooling system (radiator was plugged up, that's what I get for putting it off!!).

My recommendation is to install a heavy duty radiator, use the factory original fan/clutch and service the cooling system regularly; I've heard that periodic valve adjustments are good thing but it's been a good 65,000 since last done.

Haven't had any problems with valve seals yet.

Don't run the Duraspark in mine - got a deal on a Mallory distributor and coil, I am happy with this setup.

 

[Hotrodlincoln]

Composite timing gears. Crappy valve stem seals. EECIV. The TFI wasn't great, but honestly what were they gonna gain by putting an O2 sensor on a carburetted engine? Oooh it can retard the ignition timing if something is wrong. Then people keep driving because they don't notice the lack of lack of power, because there wasn't enough there in the first place. Making a bad situation about 10 times worse.
And the stupid thermostat on the inlet side of the water pump. (what a brilliant idea!) I know how it's supposed to work but things quite often work a lot better on paper than in the real world.

With the duraspark ignition, some good quality valve stem seals, and some other small changes these are stout engines more than capable of surpassing the US automotive industry's 100k mile engine limit of those days.

 

[Eric Kropp]

I actually think it is the best "unrecognized" engine going. Sure they are low on power and clatter a little, but that and the timing gears are what make it bullet proof. Listen to any hydraulic lifter engine with 200,000 plus miles on it and they make a lot more racket when they start up cold. Mine has 350,000 miles on it and as long as it passes smog I will keep driving it.

Eric