I have a 2000 F-150 w/ 4.2 L V6 with 5 speed manual transmission, and would like some sage advice....About 6 months ago I had factory exhaust removed at the input to the factory muffler. The exhaust shop installed a splitter pipe here and went straight out the back with "pseudo-duals" with no mufflers - only cat. converters. I seemed to notice a slight improvement in HP in that the truck pulls better at higher RPMs now than it did with factory muffler. No noticeable difference in torque. Now for the question...is the investment for a chip worth it for the 4.2 L motor??? Since I have a manual transmission, I can't benefit from altered programming of shift points. I KNOW it ain't no V8 and I don't expect it to ever pull like a V8. But, if anybody knows from real world experience, just how much difference a chip would make in day-to-day driving, I would appreciate the input. I've checked the web sites and seen the dyno numbers. Just wondering if anybody has any real life experience.
And one last question...I know premium octane is "required" but with the price of gas these days I was wondering if anybody has any positive experience running 91 octane as opposed to 93??
Thanks in advance for any input,
Brian

 

Brian: You can use 91 octane, you will not get the full advantage of the timing changes the chip makes to increase horsepower. It is a noticable difference to add 21 hp to a 1/2 ton pickup. Our products come with a 6 month satisfaction warranty and a lifetime peoduct warranty. What do you have to lose but the shipping???? Anyone else selling performance parts make this offer???
Thanks
Danny
2001 Cobra-Lazer Red
3:73 Gears
Steeda Tri-Ax Short Shifter
Bassanni X-Pipe
DiabloSport Chipped
DenseCharger

 

Danny,
Thanks for the input, now I have a follow up question. How, exactly, does 91 octane limit HP ?? I know higher octane in and of itsself does not make more HP. I understand the need for higher octane to prevent detonation / preignition with the altered timing curves provided by a performance chip. Does the onboard computer still retard timing with the new chip (using 91 octane and assuming "knock" occurs) sufficient to reduce HP gains? Or, asked another way; If no "knock" occurs with 91 octane, shouldn't the timing remain the same as it would if 93 octane were being used, and hence the HP outputs be the same?
thanks,
Brian

 

A chip does not completely override the computer. It modifies what's already there (hence the need to have your computer code when we program a chip). Engines with knock sensors will still use the sensor.

Ken Payne
Ford Truck Enthusiasts Admin