Performance mods
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Performance mods
I have an 86' f150 XL 5.0 EFI. I was wondering if there are any modifications I can do to increase better fuel economy. She's only getting about 8 mpg but I figure that is mainly due to the thrashed muffler and piping; a new one is on the way. I've switched out all the spark plugs, wires, distro and other various components associated. I'm mainly interested in replacing a cool air intake kit with the existing intake. Any help is much appreciated
Logistics Pro
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,827
Likes: 102
From: Martinsburg, WV
8mpg is not due to the exhaust unless the cats are clogged. I regularly got 17hwy out of mine stock, 15 average. There are other issues at play here. Tire and wheel size and type, driving style. Pull the codes and see what you get. It already has a cool air intake and you will not improve the air tract, it is capable of supporting over 500hp as is. The heads on the 85-86 motors just plain sucked, very restrictive. Biggest improvements would be heads and a cam kit, but not a mustang cam. And remember, performance and mileage do not go all that well together in a truck
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Sounds like a good start. I'm ordering a code reader today. The truck also emits a strong gas smell when running. I've checked all fuel lines and replaced the filter. I can't identify any fuel leaks and the smell is definitely coming from one of the many holes in the exhaust. I may have to adjust my gears as I don't really use first gear at all. I can start in second gear without even applying the gas peddle if I baby the clutch out. Not sure how to adjust gears so any tips will help
Posting Guru
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 2,271
Likes: 2
From: Mexia, TX
I think the O2 sensor doesn't kick in until the engine's to operating temp, so it wouldn't affect idle I don't think. But when you're on the road it would.
Trending Topics
Posting Guru
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 1,636
Likes: 5
From: Orlando area
Wow - 8mpg. I wish!
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
AEV FXL Super Duty - the Super Duty Raptor Ford Doesn't Make
Brett Foote
Lobo Vs Lobo: Proof the F-150 Lobo Should Be Even Lower!
Michael S. Palmer
Ford's 2001 Explorer Sportsman Concept Looks For a New Home
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Ford Truck Engines We Miss the Most!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Shelby F-150 Off-Road: Better Than a Raptor R?
Brett Foote
2027 Super Duty Carhartt Package First Look: 12 Things You NEED to Know!
Michael S. Palmer
10 Most Surprising 2026 Ford Truck Features!
Joe Kucinski
Top 10 Ford Trucks Coming to Mecum Indy 2026
Brett Foote
5 Best / 5 Worst Ford Truck Wheels of All Time
Joe Kucinski
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
SangRun Hunter
1987 - 1996 F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
10
Jun 4, 2004 03:36 PM