If that were so I would expect the 3.4 to have the same issues, which it does not. I think there are not enough head bolts in the right location, and they tend to stretch over time, and the gaskets were somewhat weak too. That doesn't explain the valve burning though, unless it is due to inefficient breathing and heat accumulation.

All pretty much solvable with aftermarket parts. But whatever power/mileage you have with the 3.0, learn to live with it, because that's as good as it gets. Not so the 22RE. And it's not about power numbers, it's about power to weight ratios. The 3.0 makes more power but is heavier. Net/net, its not that much more USEABLE power than the 22RE, especially not a built 22RE.

I guess in the interest of fairness, though, a 3.0 *can* be built for more power and better mileage. Usually involves replacing the assembly just in front of the bellhousing. Like, with a 3.4. Not that hard to do FAIK when starting with a 3.0 truck. ***MUCH*** harder when starting with a 22RE truck.