I still intend to order a complete Gen3 motor to get the timing gear along with other improvements, but could I also swap over the valve train? I know the intent is to use the SI valves, better springs (GSC I think?), and the Coyote follower fingers, but do the Gen3 heads already have the Coyote valvetrain?
Hey Rob - yes the Gen 3 heads already have the BR3Z coyote valvetrain. and you're correct that buying a gen3 longblock to swap heads gets you all the metal timing chain guides, latest tensioners, phasers, and coyote lifters/followers. This is the best off-the-shelf solution I can come up with to try and bulletproof the 3.5L valvetrain.
Using the SI valves and GSC springs with a headgames setup remains the recommendation when going the extra mile. The only thing beyond this would be 2016+ ford GT parts, however thats an entirely different price point and requires ford approval with a VIN #s
In other words, does it make sense to pull my heads and have them rebuilt before I have the Gen3 motor on hand
Yes, sending the heads out now would be the call. the Gen3 parts don't need to be on-hand until engine assembly.
or is it smarter to wait until I have the new motor and pull valve train parts off the new Gen3 head in addition to the timing gear (cam phasers, etc.) that would stay on the Gen3 motor after I swap over my Gen2 heads?
you will not need any of the Gen 3 / Coyote valvetrain parts for the cylinder head preparation to be completed. Just the bare Gen2 heads is all that needs to get sent out
@full-race geoff
I just thought of a few things I figured would be good to discuss on here.
1. You mentioned the Gen 3 internals being better. Did Ford actually redesign the rods similar to the Gen 1 to Gen 2 coyote improvement? if so, is there a measurable weight difference like the coyote rods?
2. Is there any strength differences in the block itself from Gen 2 to Gen 3 architecture?
3. Do you know of any place that sells a deck brace by itself for the open deck 3.5 block? All I can see online are companies that sell entire blocks or short locks. It would be nice to be able to just purchase the deck brace and have a machine shop of your choice install it.
Thanks.
1. All 3.5L rods are the same - gen 1 / 2 / 3 they all share the same HL3Z-6200B connecting rod. I have not weighed them individually so maybe I am overlooking something (I am not an expert engine builder). this is overall a decent rod especially for $43 that ford sells it. of course its considered the weakpoint for most modern turbo engines regardless of mfg
2. Gen 3 blocks have additional webbing, debatable if thats a tangible strength gain. 100% without question Gen 3 cranks are stronger. also Gen 3 crank pulley does not self destruct like Gen 2 crank pulley
3. I do not believe a "deck brace" is beneficial for these engines. Ive had years and years of open deck aluminum block turbo experience and it is almost never been the weak link
I got the same email response this morning… sounds like they’re serious about getting going on something for the 3.5 ecoboost! I offered to pre-pay for one even if it takes a year to bring it to market. I really want to do this one right and build in as much reliability and critical system protection as possible with this motor.
Thank you!! I appreciate you all for reaching out on this.
