I have been looking at 05+ Expeditions because of the higher HP, but there are some great deals in my area on low mileage 04 Expeditions with the 2v configuration. They have an 8000lb+ tow rating so they'll do the job I am looking for it to do. Is there any reason to not get the 2v version? The 3v ones all seem to be about $3,500 more so there is big savings. I guess I am asking if I will regret an 04?
-c

 

Having owned both the 2v in my 1997 f250 light duty and a 2006 expedition 3v 5.4. I would always choose the 3v. It is a much better engine in many ways.

 

Well I had the 2v in my Lightning and I thought the engine was a fine engine. What don't you like about it?
-c

 

With the 2V, you won't have the sparkplug issue.

 

I believe the 2 valve engines were the only ones to spit out plugs.
I have the 3 valve 5.4 in my 05 and it's not exactly a rocket. Also, a lot of the 03 and 04 Expy's have the 4.6.

 

Well I am referring only to 5.4L engines, not 4.6L.
-c

 

The plug spitting ohf the earlier 2Vs was solved by 2003. The 3V's don't want to come out at all and have a problem with breaking in the head. Do a search on the sparkplug issue.

 

Being that the model years of 2004 to 2006 do not come standard with a supercharger, I believe the question of a 2v against the 3v would not involve a Lightning model engine.

 

I own a 2v. I've driven a 3v.

Get the 3v if you can afford it. Sounds like you will be needing that extra HP when towing.

Take a good look at the rear axle and gearing ratios. This will effect the power and tow cap. just as much as engine size.

Both engines have the now famous spark plug issues and other problems.

2v=Won't keep spark plugs in.
3v=Can't get spark plugs out.

Good luck and choose wisely!

 

FIXED!

I don't know what the 3v gets for mileage, but I'm sure it's better than the 2v.

The thing I don't like about the 03-06 Expy's is the front end. It looks like it's sad or something. It doesn't look right to me. The 07+ are sexy and I'll take a Limited in black... but right now I'll have fun with my 2k Expy.

 

In my expedition we always get around 16 mpg per the digital read out on the dash.