1. Engine Crankshafts Products
  2. sku: 18601980599860891
  3. FORD SMITLEY-383-34-172

FORD SMITLEY-383-34-172 Crankshaft 3.5L

fits model: Explorer. make: Ford. year: 2011–2012.

Smitley-383-34-172 Ford 2011 2012 Explorer Crankshaft 3.5l

( Manufacturer Part Number: SMITLEY-383-34-172 ), ( Part Type: Crankshaft )

Review FORD Crankshaft 3.5l fits EXPLORER 2011–2012

The **Ford Smitley 383-34-172 Crankshaft (2011-2012 Ford Explorer, 3.5L V6)** is a high-performance, precision-engineered component designed to deliver exceptional durability and reliability for the iconic 3.5L Duratec V6 engine found in the 2011 and 2012 Ford Explorer models. Crafted from premium **4340 alloy steel**, this crankshaft is forged to exacting specifications, ensuring superior strength and resistance to fatigue, bending, and torsional stresses critical factors for maintaining optimal engine performance under demanding conditions. The crankshaft features a **five-main-bearing journal design**, providing enhanced stability and load distribution across the crankshaft s critical support points, which helps reduce vibration and prolong engine life. Its **ground and polished surfaces** ensure smooth operation, minimizing friction and wear on the main and rod bearings while improving overall efficiency. Additionally, the crankshaft is **hardened and balanced** to factory specifications, guaranteeing precise alignment and minimal imbalance during high-speed operation, which is particularly beneficial for drivers who prioritize both power and longevity. Whether used in a stock application, a modified performance build, or a restoration project, this crankshaft serves as an ideal upgrade for those seeking to restore or enhance the reliability and performance of their 3.5L V6-powered Explorer. Its compatibility with the **2011-2012 model years** makes it a straightforward replacement for worn or damaged OEM components, ensuring a seamless fit with the engine s existing hardware. For enthusiasts and mechanics alike, this crankshaft represents a smart investment in engine integrity, offering a blend of strength, precision, and longevity that aligns with Ford s engineering standards while exceeding them in durability.

### **Pros and Cons of Buying a Ford Smitley-383-34-172 (2011-2012 Explorer 3.5L Crankshaft)**

#### **Pros:**

1. **Common and Well-Documented Part** The **3.5L V6 (Cyclone engine)** in the 2011-2012 Ford Explorer is a widely used powertrain, meaning replacement crankshafts, gaskets, seals, and labor procedures are readily available. This reduces the risk of sourcing rare or hard-to-find parts.

2. **Proven Reliability (When Maintained)** The **3.5L V6** is known for being durable if properly maintained. Many examples last well beyond 200,000 miles with regular oil changes, timing belt/chain service, and coolant flushes. The **Smitley crankshaft** (a high-quality aftermarket or OEM replacement) ensures proper fit and performance.

3. **Aftermarket Support** Due to its popularity, there are numerous **aftermarket crankshafts, balancers, and supporting components** available, often at competitive prices compared to OEM parts.

4. **Potential for Engine Rebuild or Modification** If the engine is in rough shape, a **crankshaft replacement** can be part of a full rebuild. Some owners also opt for **performance upgrades** (e.g., intake, exhaust, or ECU tuning) to improve power and longevity.

5. **Lower Cost Than Replacing the Entire Engine** A **crankshaft replacement** is significantly cheaper than a full engine swap, making it a cost-effective solution for severe internal damage (e.g., rod bearing failure, main bearing wear).

6. **Ford s Warranty (If Applicable)** If the vehicle is still under **original factory warranty** (unlikely for these years, but possible if purchased new recently), some labor or parts may be covered. However, most 2011-2012 Explorers are out of warranty.

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#### **Cons:**

1. **Potential for Underlying Issues** A **crankshaft replacement alone may not fix all problems**. If the engine has **severe wear (camshaft lobes, lifters, pistons, or cylinder walls)**, additional repairs will be needed. Always inspect for:

- **Rod or main bearing failure** (scoring, pitting)

- **Camshaft wear** (excessive play, pitting)

- **Connecting rod or crankshaft damage** (bent rods, cracked journals)

- **Coolant leaks** (water pump, thermostat housing, head gaskets)

2. **Labor-Intensive Job** Replacing a crankshaft requires **full engine disassembly**, which is labor-intensive and time-consuming. Expect **50-80 hours of labor** depending on the shop s efficiency and whether additional repairs (e.g., camshaft, lifters, seals) are needed.

3. **Cost of Additional Repairs** Beyond the crankshaft, you may need:

- **New main and rod bearings** ($200-$600)

- **Crankshaft seals** ($100-$300)

- **Camshaft and lifters** ($300-$800)

- **Timing chain/guide (if worn)** ($400-$1,000)

- **Head gasket replacement (if leaking)** ($500-$1,200)

- **Balancer replacement (if damaged)** ($200-$400)

**Total estimated cost (parts labor):** **$2,500 $6,000 **, depending on condition.

4. **Risk of Future Problems** Even with a new crankshaft, **poor maintenance history** (e.g., oil changes every 10,000 miles, coolant neglect) can lead to **recurring issues** (e.g., timing chain stretch, water pump failure, head gasket leaks).

5. **Used vs. Rebuilt Engine Consideration** In some cases, **buying a used rebuilt engine** (from a junkyard or engine swap shop) may be **cheaper and less risky** than a full rebuild, especially if the existing engine has **multiple internal failures**.

6. **Potential for Misdiagnosis** Some symptoms (e.g., **ticking noises, oil consumption, low compression**) can be caused by **other issues** (e.g., **valve train problems, piston rings, or turbocharger failure** in turbo models). A **full engine inspection** is crucial before committing to a crankshaft replacement.

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### **Ending Conclusion:** A **crankshaft replacement (Smitley-383-34-172) on a 2011-2012 Ford Explorer 3.5L** is a **viable solution** if:

The engine has **confirmed crankshaft damage** (e.g., bent rods, cracked journals).

The **rest of the engine internals (camshaft, bearings, pistons) are in good condition**.

The **vehicle has a strong maintenance history** (regular oil changes, coolant flushes, timing service).

You are **prepared for additional repairs** if needed.

However, if the engine has **multiple internal failures** (e.g., worn camshaft, seized lifters, scored cylinders), a **crankshaft replacement alone may not be enough**, and a **full rebuild or used engine swap** could be more cost-effective.

---

### **Recommendation:** 1. **Get a Full Engine Inspection** Before purchasing or committing to a crankshaft replacement, have a **trusted mechanic** perform:

- **Compression test** (check for cylinder leaks)

- **Leak-down test** (identify valve or piston issues)

- **Visual inspection of crankshaft, rods, camshaft, and bearings**

- **Check for coolant leaks (head gasket, water pump, thermostat housing)**

2. **Consider a Used Rebuilt Engine** If the engine is **beyond partial repair**, a **used rebuilt 3.5L V6** (from a junkyard or engine swap shop) may cost **less than $2,000 $3,500** installed, compared to **$5,000 for a full rebuild**.

3. **Budget for Contingencies** Even with a new crankshaft, **expect to spend $2,500 $6,000 ** if other components need replacement. Have **extra funds set aside** for unexpected issues.

4. **Choose a Reputable Shop** If proceeding with a rebuild, select a **mechanic with experience on Ford 3.5L engines** to ensure proper balancing, bearing installation, and torque specifications.

5. **Alternative: Keep the Vehicle as-Is (If Mild Issues)** If the engine is **running but has minor ticking or oil consumption**, a **short-term fix (e.g., new oil pump, lifter adjustment)** might be more practical than a full rebuild.

### **Final Verdict:**

- **Worth it?** **Yes, if the engine is structurally sound and the crankshaft is the primary issue.**

- **Not worth it?** **If the engine has widespread internal damage, a used rebuilt engine may be the smarter choice.**

- **Best approach?** **Get a professional inspection first, then decide based on the full scope of repairs needed.**

Would you like help finding specific mechanics or parts suppliers for this project?

Details:

View other parts from this vehicle. Vehicle Year: 2012. Vehicle model: Explorer. Notes of the part or noticeable wear -, SCUFFS, OILY, scratches.

View other parts for this year make and model. Vehicle Make: Ford.

part #: smitley38334172 price

  • $399.75

specifications cranshafengin:

  • for models: Explorer
  • for makes: Ford
  • for years: 2011-2012
  • mpn: Smitley-383-34-172
  • part type: Crankshaft

seller cranshafengin:

  • rating: 99.8%
  • # reviews: 1488
  • city: Orrville, Ohio

general cranshafengin:

  • condition: Used
  • Car Truck Parts Accessories > Engines Engine Parts > Crankshafts

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  • class: Standard
  • type: Fixed
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offer cranshafengin:

  • sold: 0
  • availability: In Stock
  • started: January 31, 2026
  • options: Ship-to-home
  • quantity: 1
for models: explorer, for makes: ford, for years: 2011-2012, part type: crankshaft,
category: auto parts > car truck parts accessories > engines engine parts > crankshafts, sku: 18601980599860891,
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