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Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 13:14:56 -0600 (MDT)
From: owner-fordtrucks80up-digest ListService.net (fordtrucks80up-digest)
To: fordtrucks80up-digest ListService.net
Subject: fordtrucks80up-digest V1 #171
Reply-To: fordtrucks80up ListService.net
Sender: owner-fordtrucks80up-digest ListService.net


fordtrucks80up-digest Friday, October 17 1997 Volume 01 : Number 171



=======================================================================
Ford Truck Enthusiasts - 1980 And Newer Trucks Digest
Visit our web site: http://www.ford-trucks.com
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email to the same address with the word "help" in the body of the
message.
=======================================================================
In this issue:

Re: rear disc brakes [greg.medert gsa.gov]
Re: 1988 F-150 has miss [William Street ]
Re: Cams [Bill Funk ]
performance chips [jsruss postoffice.worldnet.att.net]
Re: performance chips ["Jerry Dean" ]
Re: Explorer tranny [Larry Hama ]
Subject: Re: OIL (Synthetic + Rant) [Larry Smeins ]
performance computer chips for 4.0L Ranger [jsruss postoffice.worldnet.at]
Re: Explorer tranny [Todd Metzger ]
Re: Explorer tranny [Rick Horwitz ]
New to list - Dana gearing [Michael Wray ]
FE Cams ["Mike Jones"]
Re: fordtrucks80up-digest V1 #170 [Jim Perkins ]
Re: performance computer chips for 4.0L Ranger [bLAckguArd
Ranger Engine Swap [bLAckguArd ]
Spray-on bed liners [Tony Rio ]
Re: Off-Road Equipment [BRIGANDBAR aol.com]
Re: FE Cams [Ken Payne ]
Walt's Dream Truck [Tony Rio ]

=======================================================================

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Date: 17 Oct 97 09:03:00 (-0400)
From: greg.medert gsa.gov
Subject: Re: rear disc brakes

- --UNS_gsauns2_2719834037
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Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit
Content-Disposition: inline



------------------------------

Date: Thu, 16 Oct 1997 21:15:34, -0500
From: KNBD87D prodigy.com (MR JOSH J TENNEY)
Subject: Rear Disc Brake Conversions

Hey all,

Has anyone ever tried the rear disc brake conversion for their
pickups? I know some companies, such as Ford Motorsport, 4.0 Liter
Performance, and others have a conversion available. I want to know
how difficult it is to install, how much time it took, and how much
$$ it was (parts and/or labor). I have seen it done before and it
looks great. Instead of those ugly drums, you have discs. They look
better, stop better, and are easier to service (brake pads vs brake
shoes). I am planning to do this to my '98 Ranger with the 8.8" rear
axle. Mustangs have the same axle with discs and Explorers with ABS
have the same axles with discs. What do you all suggest? Any help
would be appreciated!

Josh
KNBD87D prodigy.com

------------------------------

Josh,
I have a 91 Ranger with 8.8", I installed the rear disc conv. from
Stainless Steel Brake Corp. (SSBC). I purchased it direct from them
for $525 including shipping. At the same time 4.0 Liter Perf. wanted
$650 approx. plus shipping for the same kit from SSBC. The kit was a
true bolt on including bent brake lines, etc. I, brother and I,
installed it in about 2 hours with the aid of a lift. The kit is
awesome. I wish I had done it when the truck was new. Installed it a
couple of years ago with about 70,000 miles. Now have 112,00. Hope
this hepls. Greg

greg.medert gsa.gov
Atlanta, GA

- --UNS_gsauns2_2719834037--

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 16 Oct 1997 13:14:34 -0700
From: William Street
Subject: Re: 1988 F-150 has miss

Terry D Parker wrote:
>
> I need some help trouble shooting my F-150 with the 4.9 I-6 engine. The
> truck has 186,000 miles
> and it has had a stumble or miss for the last 110,000 miles. The miss
^^^^^^^^
This is my kinda guy - doesn't believe in rushing into things!

[stuff deleted]
- ----------------+

- --
========================================================================
'Progress & Web Consulting'

William Street Mailto:wstreet streetsys.com
Street Systems, Inc. http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.streetsys.com

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 07:23:36 -0700
From: Bill Funk
Subject: Re: Cams

> A couple of people have mentioned cams. What are the experiences
> our there with FE cams, not just the Edlebrocks but others. I'm
> thinking of replacing the current one. I don't know the specific
> specs of this one, got it from a friend. Its a little too much
> for me, I can't get a smooth idle with it unless I make the idle
> mixture really rich (and then it stinks of gas!). Its pretty
> good when you get up there in the revs but I want more low end
> punch.
>
> Ken

Ken,
I had an '81 F-250 with a 400M engine, with high miles.
I rebuilt it using an RV cam from NAPA, and Edelbrock Performer
manifold, a Holly 650 carb, and dual exhausts. I could light off the
rear tires just about from any stop light.
From your description, the cam you are using has moved the torque curve
up the RPM line (physics will take care of the horsepower). You want a
cam that moves the torque DOWN the RPM range; this will give you low-end
punch very easily and quickly. Yes, you lose some top-end power, but
that's not what trucks are about, IMO. Stock headers usually work just
fine in low RPM applications, so you can save some money there.
Bill Funk

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 10:38:39 +0000
From: jsruss postoffice.worldnet.att.net
Subject: performance chips

Since theres been a lot said about performance exhaust systems , can
anyone say if aftermarket performance computer chips work on a 4.0L ?
Superchips claims horsepower increases of 15hp and 30ft.lbs. of
torque on a 96 4.0L Ranger. Has anyone used one ?

JR RANGER

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 10:51:55 -0400
From: "Jerry Dean"
Subject: Re: performance chips

not yet, but I plan to buy one myself. the only problem is the cost.
since it is a computer module replacement, it costs around $250.00. let me
know if you have luck finding it cheaper and how much performance increase
it gives you.

- -----Original Message-----
From: jsruss postoffice.worldnet.att.net

To: fordtrucks80up listservice.net
Date: Friday, October 17, 1997 10:42 AM
Subject: performance chips



>Since theres been a lot said about performance exhaust systems , can
>anyone say if aftermarket performance computer chips work on a 4.0L ?
>Superchips claims horsepower increases of 15hp and 30ft.lbs. of
>torque on a 96 4.0L Ranger. Has anyone used one ?
>
>JR RANGER
>+-------------- Ford Truck Enthusiasts - 1980 and Newer --------------+
>| Send posts to fordtrucks80up listservice.net, |
>| Send Unsubscribe requests to fordtrucks80up-request listservice.net |
>+----------------- Site: http://www.ford-trucks.com -----------------+

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 11:01:42 +0100
From: Larry Hama
Subject: Re: Explorer tranny

I have had long term ongoing probs with the five-speed transmission on my
'92 XLT 4WD. It first seized up on me six months after it came home from
the showroom and about two years later, it locked up in second and wouldn't
shift out. Both were bushing probs. The bushings are now burnt out again
and I am in the process of replacing the whole tranny (and clutch while I'm
at it) Is this a known prob with this transmission? Is this the same
tranny that Ford uses in the Ranger? Why is there so much plastic inside
(nylon, actually)? If anybody out there knows anything, I'd appreciate the
feedback.

Larry Hama

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 09:04:12 -0600
From: Larry Smeins
Subject: Subject: Re: OIL (Synthetic + Rant)

>He added the product during his oil change, ran the car for about
>100 miles.
> Then drained out all the oil and put on a new filter. He then drove
the
>car for 30
> minutes at highway speeds with the AC on, and it ran fine,

These hokey claims have been going on for years. I remember back in the
late forties or early fifties one of the oil additive companies claimed
to have run a taxi all day in Chicago with the oil pan removed after
using their product. Be careful what you beleive.

Larry
If you don't care where you are, you ain't lost.

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 11:26:10 +0000
From: jsruss postoffice.worldnet.att.net
Subject: performance computer chips for 4.0L Ranger

Since there is talk about performance exhaust systems going on , I'd
like to get some feedback on performance computer chips for a 96
Ranger 4.0L . Superchips claims horsepower gains of 15hp and
30ft.lbs. of torque . Has anyone used one or have any knowledge of
chip use ?

JR RANGER 96 Ranger 4x4 XLT Supercab 6" lift

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 10:42:52 +0000
From: Todd Metzger
Subject: Re: Explorer tranny

Larry Hama wrote:

> I have had long term ongoing probs with the five-speed transmission on my
> '92 XLT 4WD. It first seized up on me six months after it came home from
> the showroom and about two years later, it locked up in second and wouldn't
> shift out. Both were bushing probs. The bushings are now burnt out again
> and I am in the process of replacing the whole tranny (and clutch while I'm
> at it) Is this a known prob with this transmission? Is this the same
> tranny that Ford uses in the Ranger? Why is there so much plastic inside
> (nylon, actually)? If anybody out there knows anything, I'd appreciate the
> feedback.
>
> Larry Hama

Larry,Ford has had more problems with the transmissions in the 91, 92, and some
of the 93 model year explorers than you could even guess. This goes for both
the automatics and manuals. The autos usually lose overdrive and subsequently
the rest of the tranny. The manuals usually get contaminated with outside dirt
from plugs on top of the tranny that deteriorate over time and the tranny ends
up either locking up or burning up. This is an ongoing saga in the explorer
news group.(rec.autos.makers.ford.explorer) If you would like to read about
other people's problems, I have a copy of a message that an individual posted
to the newsgroup on my webpage. I can not remember the exact link off hand but
just go to my homepage(http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.umr.edu/~tmetz/car.htm) and then follow the
link, "Troubles with your Ford". The article is not formatted the best, but
you can see what troubles other people have had. Sorry to hear about your
tranny problems. Knock on wood, I have not had any yet. If you have any more
questions, just ask and I will be happy to help.

Todd Metzger
tmetz umr.edu

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 08:44:28 -0700
From: Rick Horwitz
Subject: Re: Explorer tranny

I have seen many posts regarding problems with this transmission. The transmission is built by Mazda and it doesn't seem to be up to the job of moving the big Explorer. It is the same transmission used in the Ranger but the Rangers transmissions don't seem to fail as often probably because the Ranger is a lighter vehicle. The transmission on my 93' failed
at 35,000 and 58,000 miles at which time it was rebuilt. I just put a new one in at 96,000 miles. I have to admit my Explorer is an extreme case because I do so much off-roading and have added larger tires. However, I have read complaints from numerous people with stock Explorers who have had major transmission failure at relatively low mileages.

Many of us have went with synthetic transmission fluid hoping to extend the life span somewhat. I use Redlines Mercon Dexron III sythentic fluid.

Another preventive maintenance tip is to replace the rubber plugs in the shift rail bores with steel freeze plugs. The rubber plugs have a tendency to dry up and leak, and/or fall out. The part numbers for the metal plugs are: Dana #219-3052 or Dorman #555-108, you will need 3 plugs to do the job.

- ---------------------------------------------------------
"Off the Beaten Trail"
Dedicated to Ford Explorers and Mazda Navajos

Rick Horwitz
explorer off -road. com
http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.off -road. com /4x4web/ford/explorer/

"Warm winds blowin' heat and blue sky and a road that goes forever" Chris Rea
- ----------------------------------------------------------

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 08:45:52 -0700
From: Michael Wray
Subject: New to list - Dana gearing

OK so I am new to the list. :)

I have just bought an 86 F250 3/4 ton. So far I like it allot! OK,
so its a little long since it has the extended cab and long bed. So
far I haven't hit anything. :)

>From what I understand it has a Dana 60 rear-end and a Dana 44 front.
One, is this true? Two, what is the gearing in the Dana 60??


Also, with all this talk about the crudy oil pressure sending unit.
Is there a mechanical in-dash replacement? Or a different sending
unit that will actually show the correct pressure?

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 12:13:24 -0400
From: "Mike Jones"
Subject: FE Cams

Ken wrote:

A couple of people have mentioned cams. What are the experiences
our there with FE cams, not just the Edlebrocks but others. I'm
thinking of replacing the current one. I don't know the specific
specs of this one, got it from a friend. Its a little too much
for me, I can't get a smooth idle with it unless I make the idle
mixture really rich (and then it stinks of gas!). Its pretty
good when you get up there in the revs but I want more low end
punch.
In the '70 F-250 w/ 360 ci engine I once had, I tried an Edelbrock
Performer (194 degrees as I recall?) and was very disappointed. I was glad
when it went flat shortly after installation (bad lifter). I then tried a
208 degree overlap cam advanced 2 degrees and was amazed at how well that
cam worked. Smooth idle and very good off-line and up to 5000 rpms. The
engine also had headers, a Performer dual plane manifold and 600 cfm
Holley.

Mike J.

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 09:18:11 -0700
From: Jim Perkins
Subject: Re: fordtrucks80up-digest V1 #170

> Date: Thu, 16 Oct 1997 22:56:53 -0700
> From: Bill Funk
> Subject: Re: E4OD AT
>
> > Date: Wed, 15 Oct 1997 12:47:55 -0600
> > From: "Harold P. Balitski"
> > Subject: E4OD automatic transmission
> >
> > I am wondering if anybody else has had any trouble with the E4OD
> > automatic transmission used with the powerstroke diesel.
> > My 1996 F350 with 20K miles has been in the shop for the last
> > two weeks
> > being repaired. One of the snap rings on a clutch pack let go and part
> >
> > of it dropped into the oil pan, the remainder, into the gearing.
> > When the repairs were completed, I talked to the service
> > manager, he
> > informed me that I was not to tow my 9000# 5TH wheel with the
> > transmission in overdrive. I questioned his statement as the operators
> >
> > manual specifically states to tow in overdrive. His response was that
> > Ford requested them to inform all their customers of this new
> > information. I latter phoned the Ford customer assistance centre and
> > they stated that if the dealer said this, it was indeed correct. Not
> > satisfied, I then phoned the service manager of another dealership and
> >
> > he said that he recommends not to tow in overdrive but the operators
> > manual says that you can. (confusing?)
> > Is the E4OD a product that is not capable of its intended and
> >
> > advertised purpose?
> >
> > Harold
>
I have an E4OD in my '91 5.8 and agree with Bill Funk that it is a good
transmission very capable of towing. However, you should be aware that
the type of problems you have experienced with it have been experienced
by many others. The conventional wisdom seems to be that this
transmission is a little touchy and needs lots of care and attention,
particularly if you are doing a lot of towing and doubly so if it is
behind a diesel. I have seen many sources that all recommend both not
towing in overdrive (although I agree with Bill Funk that it shouldn't
be a problem as long as the transmission is not hunting) and frequent
fluid changes. The usual recommendation seems to be to change the fluid
and filter every 15K. I do this and haven't had any problems although I
don't tow that much anymore.

When you are next ready to change the fluid, think about doing the
following as well:

1. Put a drain plug in the pan. You will still need to pull the pan to
change the filter but this makes life so much easier and reduces the
mess factor by about 95%. I got a plug kit for $3.50 at NAPA.

2. Be sure to drain the torque converter as well as the pan. If you
don't drain the torque converter you are only changing about half of the
fluid so you end up with 1/2 fresh and 1/2 old. There is a drain plug
on the converter and it is pretty easy to do.

3. Think about installing a shift kit. I put a Transgo kit in mine for
about $35. It sharpens up the shifts a little, particularly under load.
Crisper shift equals less slipping equals less heat equals less wear and
tear.

Good luck with the rebuild, I hope that is the last problem you have
with it. Remember, it could have simply been a defective part that was
waiting to let go. That does happen sometimes and is why warranties
exist.

Jim Perkins

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 09:15:29 -0700 (PDT)
From: bLAckguArd
Subject: Re: performance computer chips for 4.0L Ranger

Unfortunately, I can't speak from personal experience (yet... see
upcoming post... :) but I have a couple friends who have run the Jet
performance chip in their 4Liters. Noone I know has played with the
Superchip one, but I would expect them to be much the same...
According to one of the websites I've found on this topic, the
Ford chips do less than for almost any other brand, due to the fact
that the Ford stock chips are closer to hi-performance than any other
maker. For example, in my 2.3L fourbanger, they don't even alter the
idle speed due to the fact that the stock chip keeps it almost as low
as it can go. I'm told that in the 4L they do actually alter the idle
speed, and that you can expect quite a bit more significant gains than
in my 4banger, however, and based solely on that, I'd say that it's
worth getting. I dropped a chip in mine, and immediately noticed a
significant performance increase.I live in a city that really demands
the most of your engine (I'd explain, but I doubtthat most people
care.) and the chip provided that extra little bit of oomph I needed.
I personally specialize in lowered sporttrucks, (*braces for
flames from 4x4 enthusiasts* ;) and I know that 4L Performance ran a
Ranger, with its only upgrades being a performance chip, an exhaust
system upgrade, and a K&N FilterCharger, and got such nice performance
ratings that all the magazines sat up and took notice... :)
Hope this long rambling string of drivel helps somehow. :)

Mitch



- ---jsruss postoffice.worldnet.att.net wrote:
>
> Since there is talk about performance exhaust systems going on , I'd
> like to get some feedback on performance computer chips for a 96
> Ranger 4.0L . Superchips claims horsepower gains of 15hp and
> 30ft.lbs. of torque . Has anyone used one or have any knowledge of
> chip use ?

_____________________________________________________________________
Sent by RocketMail. Get your free e-mail at http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.rocketmail.com

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 09:31:51 -0700 (PDT)
From: bLAckguArd
Subject: Ranger Engine Swap

Hi. ;)
I own a '91 Ranger 2WD with the all-powerful (spot the sarcasm?)
2.3L I-4, and due to the fact that my dad gave me the truck after he
had put almost 100,000 kms on it, (and dad isn't really very good with
vehicles) it's kinda in need of some TLC (Time, Love and Cash). To
that end, and to the end of the fact that I'm tired of being thumped
as I race other kids to school in the mornings, I am considering
putting a 4L V6 into the truck.
Does anyone know what sorts of difficulties would be involved in
this swap? For example, would it be a direct bolt-in swapover, or are
all the mounts significantly different, etc. I would be getting the
swap professionally done, however I would need to buy all the parts
myself. Hopefully someone out there has some knowledge on this topic.
:) Any info you can give regarding the changeover from the gutless
wonder to the big fella would be most welcomed. ;)
In addition, I would *like* (note the totally hypothetical tone)
to be able to mate in the Mustang 5-speed tranny to this engine,
'cause I've heard a lot of horror stories about the 5-speed that
generally comes with the 4L. Any thoughts on this, problems involved,
etc etc etc? And if this is not viable, can anyone suggest a good fast
5-speed manual that would mate well with the 4L? I'm not crazy about
the idea of mating my Mazda tranny from the I4 to the V6, so any
suggestions are welcome. :)
Thanks in advance for any help you can offer...
*end ranting babble session*
Mitch





_____________________________________________________________________
Sent by RocketMail. Get your free e-mail at http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.rocketmail.com

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 13:04:14 -0600
From: Tony Rio
Subject: Spray-on bed liners

Wondering if anyone has had any experience with the spray-on bed
liners (they go on in a semi-liquid compound, and then harden). I had a
traditional plasic liner on my last truck, but opted not to get one this time
because water had a tendancy to sit under the liner in the old truck.
I saw at the Chicago Auto Show where a company takes and sprays a
plasic-fiberglass compound into the bed, and it is supposedly better than
the pre-formed liners because they it's harder, and obviously conforms
exactly to the bed and sidewalls. I was curious if anyone has done this,
and if they had and good or bad experiences with it.

Thanks!!!

Tony

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 14:05:30 -0400 (EDT)
From: BRIGANDBAR aol.com
Subject: Re: Off-Road Equipment

I have an F-350 4x4 Crew Cab (Powerstroke) and an begining to prepare it for
some serious off-roading. I'd appreciate any information on the installation
of ARB Air Lockers, the price, ease of installation, results, problems etc.
I'm also looking for a source to get a good buy on a portable GPS unit to
use with the truck. I've looked at a couple of Magellan units that seem to
do everything I need, but I can't find any discounted prices on them. I know
that there must be a place to get them out there.

These are long trucks, and that has some disadantages, but also a few
advantages as in wheelbase span. Has anybody had any experience and or
problems with water ingestion or anything.

------------------------------

Date: Wed, 17 Sep 1997 14:08:34 -0400
From: Ken Payne
Subject: Re: FE Cams

At 12:13 PM 10/17/97 -0400, you wrote:
>
>Ken wrote:
>
>A couple of people have mentioned cams. What are the experiences
>our there with FE cams, not just the Edlebrocks but others. I'm
>thinking of replacing the current one. I don't know the specific
>specs of this one, got it from a friend. Its a little too much
>for me, I can't get a smooth idle with it unless I make the idle
>mixture really rich (and then it stinks of gas!). Its pretty
>good when you get up there in the revs but I want more low end
>punch.
>In the '70 F-250 w/ 360 ci engine I once had, I tried an Edelbrock
>Performer (194 degrees as I recall?) and was very disappointed. I was glad
>when it went flat shortly after installation (bad lifter). I then tried a
>208 degree overlap cam advanced 2 degrees and was amazed at how well that
>cam worked. Smooth idle and very good off-line and up to 5000 rpms. The
>engine also had headers, a Performer dual plane manifold and 600 cfm
>Holley.
>
>Mike J.
>

I made a mistake and thought I was sending this to the 1961-1979
list. Since I'm on all three lists I sometimes mess up. Anyways,
thanks for the information, it was helpful.

Ken

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997 14:13:31 -0600
From: Tony Rio
Subject: Walt's Dream Truck

WALT214 aol.com wrote:
>
> I have owned older chevys and fords(1970,s) and have always had
reasonable
> amount of luck.The newest truck i ever owned was a 1976 chevy
which i got rid
> of to purchase a 1992 F-150 custom 4x4 this last august,which for me
was
> almost a dream truck. Purchased at a dealer since then it has had to
>have 1) U-joint,2) battery,3) alternator,4) L & R front ball joints,5) oxygen
>intake ,and now it wont start(no noise).Having it towed tonight and will
>have to wait and see.

Walt...

Sorry to hear about your trouble. I have a 94 F150 that I have had to
have most of the same equipment replaced on. However, I have almost
80k miles on mine, and from past experiences with Fords, (I currently
have 5, but have owned 7 total) I know that some of this can be
expected:
*Battery at about every 35k (particularly in urban areas where you start
and stop a lot).
*U-joints at 60k.
*Alternator at 60k.
*Water pump at 95K.
*Radiator at 75k. If it doesn't go then, expect it at about 100k.
*Front ball joint bushings at 70k.

If it won't start on you, check the solenoid on the starter. This happened
to me (no noise, nothing) Once I tightened the solenoid back to the
started, everything was beautiful. Also, keep an eye on the front tires. I
know it's not as big a problem on the 4x4s' but the 2 wheel F150's eat up
the edges of the front tires (particularly if you have aggressive treads like
on the Goodyear Wrangler AT).....

---

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