Another class c question, 5.4 engine??

[mikenmichele]

Hi again. Another question about a ford 350 chassis with the 5.4 engine. Its a 2004 23a four winds and was wondering how is this combo? Power and fuel economy?? Any major issues other than the spark plug issue that I hear of? This unit has 76k on it but looks like new all over, in under and out. Thanks for any advice!!

[rough road]

Anyone??

[gklehner]

Here is my limited experience.
Have a '97 gulf stream 21' with the ford 5.4 on the 350 frame, 46k miles on it. It is not a "fast" engine but has good pulling ability. The old horse power vs. torque question. Horse power is just a calculated value based on engine torque and how "quickly" it can move a load. Basically, if you stomp on the throttle you won't win any races, but it has enough torque to pull well without the engine screaming at you. I like the engine. On steep grades fully loaded at 4,000 ft elevation it moved along comfortably, easily maintaining 60 mph. Of course much depends on how well it was maintained. Emissions testing (actual exhaust vs. the on board diagnostic system check) will tell you how well the engine has aged. For ours, combustion number drop from new was insignificant. Also have heard good reviews on this engine from reputable RV mechanics. So for what it's worth, have a 14 year old 5.4 that has never had any problems and is still in great condition. Got 10.5 mpg on the last trip.
Hope that helps!

Greg, Karen and the puppies.