Coyote V8 Unleashed

The Versatile Coyote V8

Remember the excitement when Ford reintroduced the legendary Coyote V8 engine? This powerhouse isn’t just another motor under the hood; it’s an evolution that harks back to the classic era of American muscle with a modern twist. First seen roaring through the streets in the Mustang GT, this engine quickly proved its versatility, finding its way into a slew of Ford models, including the ever-popular F-150, and even stepping outside the usual Ford family.

The third-generation Coyote V8, introduced with the 2018 F-150, boasts a mix of direct and port fuel injection, advanced PTWA cylinder liners, and beefed-up internals. One of the more exhilarating versions of this engine is the supercharged “Predator” variant, cranking out a wild 760 horsepower and making its mark in the formidable Raptor R.

Longevity and Reliability

With reputation at stake, the Coyote V8 has impressed many by proving itself not just as a performance marvel but also as a dependable workhorse. It’s not unusual to find these engines running strong past the 100,000-mile mark. A peek inside one such engine by a YouTube channel, I Do Cars, revealed how the Coyote manages this impressive feat.

The examination of this particular engine, extracted from a 2018 F-150, highlighted an engine that easily withstood the test of time, proving how well-founded those reliability claims are. The engine was purportedly locked up at over 100,000 miles, but things inside looked surprisingly clean, with minimal wear and tear in areas such as the valvetrain and the pistons.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the Coyote V8 feels alive and eager to make an impression. It’s an embodiment of American engineering that offers a robust throttle response and a heart-thumping growl that can transform daily drives into thrilling escapades. Compared to rivals, the engine’s linear power delivery stands out, with a high-redline sweetness not easily matched by competitors.

In trucks like the F-150, the Coyote’s power translates into impressive towing capacities and off-the-line muscle, while in the Mustang, it delivers the kind of high-rev exhilaration once reserved for pricier sports cars. It’s a bridge between utility and sheer driving excitement, making it suitable both for long hauls and for when the road opens up.

Under the Hood

The teardown of this seasoned Coyote V8 engine made some surprising findings. While initial concerns were raised over an engine problem, most parts remained in solid condition. However, one issue stood out—related to the oil control rings. Heavy carbon buildup suggested the engine was burning oil, a common concern for high-mileage engines. This led to oil rings seizing and subsequent catalytic converter trouble.

The tear down revealed minor typical wear in high-mileage engines. While the issue isn’t extensive, it’s worth noting that prolonged oil consumption can lead to costly repairs if not monitored. Despite this hiccup, the evidence supports the narrative that with appropriate care, a Coyote V8 can be an enduring component in any Ford vehicle, whether it’s cruising through town or towing up a mountain pass.