Ford 255 V8 (4.2) Liter Engine Specifications

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The Ford 255 V8 (4.2) Engine Specifications

Ford introduced the 255 V8, also known as the 4.2L V8, in the early 1980s as a fuel-efficient option in Ford’s Windsor engine family. With 255 cubic inches of displacement, Ford engineers designed it during a time when fuel economy was a top priority, so it only delivered a modest 115 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. While it shared parts with the more popular 302 (5.0L) V8, they tuned the 255 more for efficiency than performance. It had a short run in vehicles like the F-Series trucks, LTD, and Thunderbird, but it’s often remembered as a practical yet underpowered engine that was eventually phased out for stronger options.

General Engine Information:

• Ignition System: Distributor-based ignition
• Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
• Oil Capacity: Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters)
• Spark Plug Gap: 0.044 inches (1.1 mm)

Applications:

Ford used the 255 V8 engine in a limited number of vehicles, primarily in the early 1980s, before phasing it out in favor of more powerful and fuel-efficient engines. It was found in:

• Ford F-Series Trucks (F-100, F-150)
• Ford LTD
• Ford Thunderbird
• Mercury Cougar
• Mercury Marquis

Performance and Usage:

The Ford 255 V8 was born out of a time when fuel efficiency was the name of the game, thanks to the oil crises of the 1970s. Ford designed it to sip fuel rather than gulp it, but that came with a trade-off—less power. For many, the 255 felt a bit underwhelming, especially compared to the muscle of the 302 and 351 V8s. It had a brief moment in the spotlight before being overshadowed by engines with more grunt. Enthusiasts often remember the 255 V8 with a bit of nostalgia, but also a sigh for what it lacked.

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Ford 255 V8 History

The Ford 255 V8 engine, also known as the 4.2L V8, has a brief but interesting history that reflects the automotive industry’s response to the fuel crises of the 1970s. Here’s a detailed look at its origins, development, and eventual discontinuation:

Origins and Development:

• Late 1970s: After the 1973 and 1979 oil crises, Ford, like many automakers, needed to focus on creating more fuel-efficient engines. The push for smaller, more economical powerplants led to the development of the 255 V8. Engineers introduced this engine as a downsized version of the Windsor V8 family, designed to meet the demands of the era for better fuel economy.
• 1980: The Ford 255 V8 made its debut in 1980, primarily as a fuel-efficient alternative to the larger and more powerful 302 (5.0L) V8. The engine was designed to provide decent fuel economy while still delivering the torque characteristics that V8 engines were known for. It had a bore of 3.68 inches and a stroke of 3.00 inches, giving it a total displacement of 255 cubic inches (4.2 liters).

Applications and Usage:

• Early 1980s: The 255 V8 found its way into several Ford vehicles, including the lighter-duty F-100 and F-150 trucks, Ford LTD, Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar, and Mercury Marquis. These vehicles appealed to drivers who wanted the benefits of a V8 without the heavy fuel consumption that came with larger engines. The 255 V8 offered a balance between the power of a V8 and the fuel efficiency that was crucial during the fuel-conscious era of the late ’70s and early ’80s.
• Performance Characteristics: The engine was equipped with a 2-barrel Motorcraft 2150 carburetor and produced 115 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and 195 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. While these figures were modest, they reflected the engine’s focus on fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. The 255 V8 was built using many of the same components as the 302, but with a shorter stroke and smaller bore to reduce displacement.

Decline and Discontinuation:

• Market Reception: The 255 V8 received mixed reviews. While it delivered on its promise of better fuel economy, drivers criticized the lack of power, especially when compared to other V8 options. This led to its limited appeal among consumers who preferred the more powerful 302 and 351 engines.
• 1982: By 1982, Ford decided to phase out the 255 V8 in favor of engines that could offer better performance without compromising too much on fuel efficiency. The 302 (5.0L) V8, which had become increasingly popular, effectively replaced the 255 as the go-to small V8 in Ford’s lineup.

Legacy:

• Short-Lived but Not Forgotten: The Ford 255 V8 was a product of its time, born out of necessity during an era of economic and environmental challenges. While it never achieved the lasting popularity of its larger Windsor siblings, the 255 V8 represents an interesting chapter in Ford’s engine development history. It stands as a testament to the company’s efforts to adapt to changing market demands, even if the engine itself was short-lived.

In retrospect, enthusiasts often view the 255 V8 as a niche engine, remembered more for its role in Ford’s transition during a challenging period rather than for its performance on the road. Today, it serves as a reminder of the automotive industry’s attempts to balance power and efficiency in the face of external pressures.

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Ford 355 4.2L Transmission Pairings

During its brief production run, Ford paired the 255 V8 (4.2L) with a few different transmissions. Ford engineers chose these transmissions to complement the engine’s focus on fuel efficiency and moderate performance.

Manual Transmissions:

1. Tremec T170 (T-170FT/RUG)
   • Type: 3-speed manual transmission with overdrive.
   • Application: Commonly used in light-duty Ford trucks and passenger cars.
   • Notes: The T170 was designed to provide good fuel efficiency with its overdrive gear, making it a suitable match for the 255 V8.
2. Tremec SROD (Single-Rail Overdrive)
   • Type: 4-speed manual transmission.
   • Application: Used in a variety of Ford cars and trucks during the early 1980s.
   • Notes: This transmission was another option for improving fuel economy, with an overdrive fourth gear.

Automatic Transmissions:

1. C4 Automatic Transmission
   • Type: 3-speed automatic transmission.
   • Application: Widely used in Ford cars and trucks, including those equipped with the 255 V8.
   • Notes: The C4 was a durable and reliable transmission, known for its simplicity and ease of maintenance.
2. C5 Automatic Transmission
   • Type: 3-speed automatic transmission.
   • Application: The C5 was an evolution of the C4, designed to improve fuel efficiency with a lock-up torque converter.
   • Notes: Ford commonly placed it in light-duty trucks and cars, offering a slight edge in fuel economy over the C4.

Summary:

Ford paired the 255 V8 with specific transmissions to boost fuel economy while still delivering decent performance. This combo struck a balance between efficiency and drivability. At a time when consumers were highly concerned about fuel costs, folks thought that was a big deal. The idea was to give drivers the benefits of a V8 engine without the usual fuel-guzzling that came with larger V8s, making the 255 V8 and its transmissions a practical choice for the era.

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Ford 255 V8 Performance Considerations

Ford didn’t design the 255 V8 for performance, and neither should you. Here are some key reasons why:

1. Low Performance Potential:

• Displacement: The 255 V8 has a smaller displacement (4.2L) compared to its Windsor family siblings like the 302 (5.0L) and 351 (5.8L). This limits the engine’s ability to produce significant horsepower and torque without extensive modifications.
• Design Limitations: Ford engineers optimized the engine’s bore and stroke for fuel efficiency rather than performance. The smaller bore size limits the size of the valves that can be used, which in turn restricts airflow and power potential.

2. Limited Aftermarket Support:

• Parts Availability: Limited aftermarket support for the 255 V8 compared to the 302 and 351 Windsor engines means you just can’t get there. Performance parts like camshafts, intake manifolds, and cylinder heads are not as readily available or diverse for the 255.
• Compatibility Issues: Many performance parts designed for the 302 and 351 are not directly compatible with the 255. This means custom work or parts would be required, adding to the complexity and cost of a performance build.

3. Cost vs. Benefit:

• Investment: Turning a 255 V8 into a performance engine would take a lot of investment in custom machining, parts, and tuning. Given the engine’s inherent limitations, the performance gains you’d get wouldn’t justify the cost compared to starting with a 302 or 351, both of which have way more potential for power increases. If you’re looking to build a high-performance engine, the 255 just isn’t the best foundation.
• Alternative Options: For those looking to build a high-performance Ford V8, starting with a 302 or 351 is a more cost-effective and practical choice. These engines have a proven track record in performance applications and a vast array of available parts.

4. Suitability for Light Modifications:

• While the 255 V8 is not suitable for heavy performance builds, it can still benefit from light modifications such as a mild camshaft upgrade, a better exhaust system, and possibly a carburetor or fuel injection upgrade. These modifications can improve drivability and power slightly but won’t transform the engine into a high-performance powerhouse.

Conclusion:

If you’re looking to build a high-performance engine, skip the Ford 255 V8. Start with a 302 or 351 Windsor instead. These engines offer better performance potential, have more aftermarket support, and provide a stronger foundation for power upgrades. The 255 V8 is better suited for restoration projects where you want to maintain originality or make modest improvements in drivability. It’s not designed for big horsepower, but it can shine in the right context.

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