the helix power tower really doesn't do much.i have the k&n fipk and a single glasspack with dual 2.5 outlets and 3'' tips,it works great.

 

Whats the part number for the Superchip you guys are using? How much does it go for? Where is the Computer so I can install it? Thanks.

 

Hey guys, I'm with 4x4 flareside on the idea of waiting until all of the hardware mods are done(headders, exhaust, dual dumps=more torque, intake, and TB andMass airflow...) before the chip or reprogrammer so you can really get a noticable feel...

And on ny truch I have noticed a gain in performance with the Helix, however more so at higher speeds with the rpm down low, she picked up more usable torque at 80+, less downshifting...and anyone out thee that bought a reprogrammer over a chip, wanted some input about pro's and con's or the chip VS reprogrammer. Thanks..


5.4

 

Yeah your right, i should probably wait till i'm done with the engine before I do a chip. What Mass air and Throttle Body do you guys recommend and which ones should I stay away from? Thanks.

 

OK, I'm going to throw my $.02 in. Go for the Hypertech Chip then work on air, pulleys etc.... I personally (opinions are like) like the K&N. It has a sneaky stock look and gulps air like the best of em and it keeps the COLD AIR cold.

For the cover, I prefer Penda when going with a soft due to ease of installation and customer service. I eventually went with a shell color matched and I miss the convenience of the soft.

 

My 2 cents:

For those who are just starting to modify their stock engine, pls don't forget the simple stuff:

1. The engine, regardless of how shiny and fancy, is essentially an air pump. The volume of air flowing in and flowing out has MORE to do w/ improving hp than any other single thing. Period. Study the multitude of posts on here about FIPKs and, on the Exhaust board, cat-back systems. These two things will add the most uummph to your truck w/o putting u on welfare.
2. After No 1, a computer chip mod is well worth the $$$. After driving your wonderful 5.4 at 95mph and noticing that you are only pushing 2800 rpm, you will start realizing you can go ALOT faster if it weren't for the built in inhibitor in the programming. (tires do have a speed rating, btw)

After the above, then feel free to start squeezing all avail hp out (fan mod=3 hp, empty ashtray=.0012 hp, etc).

 

I saw in a catalog that there are different FIPKs made by K&N. What are the differences and which ones do you recommend? I don't think i'm gonna get the MAC kit b/c of the metal tube issue. I'd rather have it suck cold air all of the time. Thanks.

 

STWater,
I would just check out some of the performance shops in your area.....I had purchased mine a long time ago at Mikes off Road and Accessories, If you have one up there......The kit you want includes the composite plastic elbow, few screws, 4 hose clamps, 2 rubber type reducers, and hopefully a 9" k&n....and couple other odd's n inns....and a metal braket for holding the tube up...it should take you about 45 minutes with a few tools....





5.4

 

STWater

Call Mike Troyer, or post in Computer Chips. I bought my chip (along with just about everyone else around here) and he can provide a LOT of good information that you can use.

Unless you're installing a supercharger or doing internal mod's, or maybe bolt on's like headers, I'd go chip first. With headers you'd need to have the chip programmed a little different. But read some posts on the results of headers. Don't expect to get a lot for the $$. It all depends on how far you plan to take it.

I still vote for the chip!

 

I haven't done an air intake yet. I think i'm gonna do a Cervini ram air hood with the Ram air kit for the intake. First i'm gonna do the chip. Can someone give me a part # and a price? Thanks.

 

The chip depends on the computer code for your truck. Lok in the passenger door jamb, near the hinges. You should see a small 1"x2" sticker with a number and letters something like ZUT2 (that's mine)

And call Mike Troyer in the Comuter Chip forum for details. He doesn't bite. and he's a wealth of knowledge. No hard sale salesman there. Oh, and since he can' post discussing prices, it's a little over $200 for a single program chip. A Flip Chip (2 programs you can "flip and switch" between, is about $100 more unless you do a custom program)

Call Mike