Our favorite engine teardown expert is back! This time, I Do Cars on YouTube takes apart a wrecked Ford 7.3-liter “Godzilla” V8 for the very first time. While this engine usually powers Super Duty trucks, this one came from a Ford Econoline van in a rental fleet. You can also get it as a crate engine from Ford, and a few aftermarket companies sell kits to make it easier to drop into a Mustang. It’s a simple pushrod design, which should help with durability.
That said, the engine doesn’t have a stellar reputation so far. This particular unit failed at just 70,000 miles, and Eric is eager to figure out why.
The Camshaft Issue
The Ford 7.3 V8’s bad reputation mostly comes from camshaft failures. This is usually blamed on the ECU, which keeps the big engine idling at low RPMs to save fuel. Since the V8 was designed mainly for Super Duty trucks and commercial use, that approach makes sense. The problem is that the camshaft is the last part in the engine’s oil circuit, and oil flow is usually linked to engine speed. Combine that with the thinner oils many automakers recommend today, and you get a perfect storm for worn cam lobes.
When the teardown begins, it’s clear this engine has already seen some work. The pushrods and valves look well-oiled and in good shape, but the pistons are rusty because the engine wasn’t stored properly. Then we find the clue: one of the lifters is missing a bearing, and the roller is badly chewed. The timing system looks fine at first glance, but once removed, it reveals a camshaft lobe that’s been grooved by the mismatched speed of the damaged lifter roller. Unsurprisingly, there are also clear signs of insufficient lubrication.
| Ford 7.3-liter V8 (Baseline stock tuning F-250) | |
| Horsepower | 430 |
| Torque | 485 lb.-ft (@4,000 rpm) |
| Weight | 580 pounds |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 |
Should You Put A Ford 7.3 Godzilla In A Mustang?
Honestly, there’s no reason not to do the swap—unless you plan to leave the engine idling for long periods. After all, there’s nothing like raw displacement, right? Work vehicles often get neglected, and long idle times are actually harder on an engine than most people realize. From what we see in this teardown, using thinner oils and running the engine at low RPM for extended periods can be a recipe for failure. General Motors faces similar issues, just on a larger scale.
Engines designed for commercial vehicles like heavy-duty trucks and vans should handle long idles better. Emissions regulations likely force automakers to lower idle speeds, but a simple idle cutoff—unless overridden by the driver—could extend engine life without needing cylinder deactivation.
There are aftermarket fixes, like upgraded oil pumps, to get around the low-idle problem. But as Eric notes, many modern engines from different manufacturers face similar challenges. In practice, it seems delivery and fleet trucks are the ones that suffer the most. That said, we’d definitely be all-in for a Mustang powered by the Megazilla—we just wouldn’t let it sit idling.
FAQ’s
What makes the 7.3 L Godzilla engine special?
The 7.3L Godzilla engine is special because it’s a modern pushrod V8 designed for both power and durability. It has a cast-iron block, aluminum heads, and is built to handle heavy-duty work while still being street-friendly.
What car has the 7.3 Godzilla engine?
The 7.3L Godzilla engine is found in the **Ford Super Duty trucks** like the F-250 and F-350, and it’s also used in the Ford Mustang for aftermarket builds and high-performance swaps.
How much horsepower does the 7.3 Godzilla Mustang have?
In a Mustang build, the 7.3 Godzilla can produce roughly **500–600 horsepower**, depending on modifications like tuning, intake, and exhaust upgrades.
Can you supercharge a 7.3 Godzilla engine?
Yes, the 7.3 Godzilla can be supercharged. Many aftermarket kits are available, and the engine’s strong bottom end makes it suitable for forced induction without major internal upgrades.
Can a 7.3 Godzilla fit in a Mustang?
Yes, with the right mounts and modifications, a 7.3 Godzilla can fit in a Mustang. It requires custom engine mounts, headers, and sometimes adjustments to the drivetrain and cooling system.
How much horsepower does a 7.3 Godzilla have at RPM?
The stock 7.3 Godzilla produces **430 hp at 5,500 RPM** and 475 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 RPM. Performance builds can push those numbers much higher depending on tuning.
What is the problem with the 7.3 Godzilla engine?
Most owners report very few issues, but early models may experience minor sensor or oil pressure problems. Overall, it’s considered very reliable compared to older V8s.
What oil to use in 7.3 Godzilla?
Ford recommends **5W-30 full synthetic oil** for the 7.3 Godzilla engine. Using quality synthetic oil helps with longevity and keeps the engine running smoothly under heavy loads.
Is the 7.3 Godzilla a V8?
Yes, the 7.3 Godzilla is a **V8 engine** with a pushrod design, combining modern tech with classic V8 durability and performance.
