First timer here, I have just puchased an '03 Lightning and I am wondering what boltons and other things I can do to maximize the power?

 

headers, performance exhaust, modular/tuner and a air ram intake just as some basics

 

Almost, but not quite. Unless his truck has problems with the OEM exhaust, bolting on headers and a "performance exhaust" (read: aftermarket exhaust like Bassani or Magnaflow) do not qualify as maximizing power.

Aftermarket exhaust systems at his power level are done for sound only.

The "standard" bolt-ons for power are a 4 or 6lb lower pulley, air intake, and a custom tune, preferably a custom dyno tune.

Stewart

 

So there would be no difference between an out of the box exhaust and a custom built highflo exhaust?

There is a local shop that does dyno tuning with SCT tuners, what kind of intake would work best?

 

Until you start pushing 450 - 500 hp at the wheels, your performance gains from headers are negligible. These Lightnings breathe very well, exhaust wise, up to around the 450 mark.

Don't forget now, we're talking headers.

There are three parts to a Lightning exhaust (really, just about any exhaust).

1. Headers/exhaust manifolds
2. The midpipe (where the cats are located)
3. And the cat-back

A cat-back setup (ANY cat-back) will gain you absolutely NOTHING in the performance category, but will give you EVERYTHING in the sound category!

As for your air intake, just about any open air filter will work. K&N, JLP, Chickenears, etc.

Some guys argue the under hood heat negates the benefits of getting more air to the S/C, but I've never seen any conclusive proof regarding that argument, and in fact, have seen data backing up using a system like the JLP CAI, over the stock air box.

Stewart

 

Took delivery, here are the pictures.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/6...-new-ride.html

 

Just make sure they know the difference in tuning a Mustang, and tuning the Lightning. I've seen more than one Lightning vent the block by some mustang tuners.


Good luck with it.

Charlie

 

You may want to consider a water alcohol/methanol injection system. We've been seeing some very respectable power gains with our customers. Take a look at our website to learn more about the systems we offer and to check out some of our customer's vehicles.

If you have any questions don't hesitate to post them or give us a call.


- Nathan