Suggestions for Modifications

[gsoublis]

I am new to the forum and wanted to do a little light modification to my 2006 Expedition. I was thinking of installing the Flowmaster 17411 kit but did not know how aggressive it would sound on a 5.4 motor. I was also thinking of a cold air induction K&N 57-2568 and a mass air flow meter or a throttle body. Just want a little more than what it has. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[ELVATO]

I'd be careful with the 3V 5.4 motor. At least with the F150s, it is rather prone to going lean with intake modifications. I'd use the money you'd use for the MAF and put it towards a programmer.

 

[DarrinBC]

I agree that a MAF isn't a mod that will add power all by itself. The MAF is an air meter.

Now, I have seen people who claim to have found power by installing a different MAF. These same people will almost always find out that what is really going on is they are using a MAF that has a different enough calibration to create a lean enough condition to create a little more power but not lean enough to set a code.

Same goes for most of the CAI kits. They also tend to create a leaner condition which will make a little more power.

The truth is that running lean will most often create more power. The very unfortunate part is that running lean like this will make more power right up until something goes wrong and it goes too lean. When that happens the outcome isn't good and this can very easily happen when this leaner condition is not the baseline that the computer in the vehicle was calibrated to operate around.

The right modifications coupled with proper tuning is the answer.

Darrin

 

[gsoublis]

Thank you for the response. So it probably is not a good idea to start making changes like that. Is it ok to go ahead and at least install the Cold Air Induction or would I want to get the computer reprogrammed if I decide to add?

 

[DarrinBC]

It should be fine with the CAI. I don't see any reason why the computer wouldn't have the ability to adjust for it as long as you aren't changing too much else, leaving the MAF alone and have good O2 sensors.

Not sure if the CAI is going to be a mod that will really provide much actual benefit, but it shouldn't hurt anything.

My opinion is that the right exhaust modifications and tuning are probably going to reap the most benefits if done properly and together.

For the simple stuff you can make sure your MAF is clean and make sure all the maintenance items are in good order. You can get a can of special purpose MAF cleaner made by CRC at most auto parts stores nowadays for around $5-$7.

Darrin