Hi, my name is Kelsi and I have a lifted 1996 ford f250....i really want a diesel but it is out of the question right now...so my question is; what can i buy for my motor to make it fast? Was thinking about a supercharger, what goes along with getting a supercharger? what else would i have to buy? help please thanks!

 

First off, most superchargers are quite expensive, if you buy one, you need a kit to really do it properly.

Next, the engine WILL, and I repeat WILL, need to be modified. You need forged pistons as a minimum. Some report success running the stock pistons, but the problem is the stock pistons cannot handle much, under boost they can fail at any time, and they might work ok so long as the engine is running perfectly, but you get one screw up, one part that fails, and it can take out your whole motor. Forged pistons can take the incorrect tuning, and many are made for FI, so they help lower compression, which you will need to reliably run boost.

You will need to run larger injectors, the stock ones might take some boost, but this is the exact sort of thing that can cause detonation while accelerating, you need the ability to get more fuel when boost kicks in, and the right sized injectors are going to be the best way to do this. You can push the stock injectors with a 10:1 Fuel Managament Unit (FMU), which basically raises the fuel pressure 10 psi to every lb or boost. This is an acceptable approach to run mild boost, but not nearly as consistent or reliable as larger injectors.

Next, you stock computer does not understand larger injectors or boost. To handle that, you need to reflash the stock computer with a tune that lets it know what size injectors you are running. You will also probably do best to have an oversize MAF, like those from a Lightning. The reflash can be set up for the larger MAF, do not try a larger MAF or larger injectors without a tuner. Different tuners have different options, but most will work, and it really boils down to support. The SCT seems to be one of the most popular.

You will need to run iridium plugs, platinums run too hot for any more than mild boost. Coppers will work, but they won't last long. You also need to adjust the gap down, about .040 will work up to about 12 psi, up to 20 psi run .030.

I would add an wideband AF ratio meter, Innovate is one of the most popular, allows you to monitor the AF ratio and make sure it is where it is supposed to be.

The stock transmission might hold up ok, but remember, it is not made from that much power. I would recommend installing a shift kit and running a stronger torque converter, and a better cooler.

Some other things to consider, a turbocharger might actually cost less, most superchargers are quite spendy. You can also maybe get Lighting parts, which are for the most part direct bolt ons.

This is an expensive undertaking.