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Ken, I need some help

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Old Nov 9, 2003 | 06:39 PM
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Ken, I need some help

Ok,

I've read just about every post on chips and the 5.4l that I can find and am totally overwhelmed and more confused that when I started. Unfortunately, I'm one of those who analyzes things to death instead of going with instinct. I have a 2003 5.4l Expedition and am looking for increased "driveability". Currently, it seems to me that the 2003 expy's run out of steam at about 40mph. Off the line, the truck is "ok", but not outstanding. If I need to accelerlate above 50mph, its just not there. I live in Houston which is hot & humid for most of the year and that just kills HP. Plus, around here a yield sign usually means "race you to the open lane". I don't ever plan on putting larger tires on and the trailer towing I do is infrequent and I don't expect it to get over 3000lbs. Can or will you make a recommendation on a chip for my truck? (I'll trust your judgement since you are the resident expert). What would you do if it was your truck I guess is what I am asking. The only mod I have is a K&N air filter. I do a large portion of highway driving so I would be one of the ones that might gain some mpg from the mods. 87,91 and 93 octane are readily available in my areas. Sorry for the long post, but I'm basically dazed and confused at this point. Right now, I'm considering the SCMT 1715 or the Diablo Sport, but I'm just not sure

Thanks
 
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Old Nov 11, 2003 | 08:51 AM
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I just got back from a week long trip to the SEMA show and I'm swamped catching up. I'll answer when I'm caught up.
 
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Old Nov 11, 2003 | 10:23 AM
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Sorry, didn't realize
 
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Old Nov 11, 2003 | 11:22 PM
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Re: Ken, I need some help

Originally posted by tkd
Ok,

I've read just about every post on chips and the 5.4l that I can find and am totally overwhelmed and more confused that when I started. Unfortunately, I'm one of those who analyzes things to death instead of going with instinct. I have a 2003 5.4l Expedition and am looking for increased "driveability". Currently, it seems to me that the 2003 expy's run out of steam at about 40mph. Off the line, the truck is "ok", but not outstanding. If I need to accelerlate above 50mph, its just not there. I live in Houston which is hot & humid for most of the year and that just kills HP. Plus, around here a yield sign usually means "race you to the open lane". I don't ever plan on putting larger tires on and the trailer towing I do is infrequent and I don't expect it to get over 3000lbs. Can or will you make a recommendation on a chip for my truck? (I'll trust your judgement since you are the resident expert). What would you do if it was your truck I guess is what I am asking. The only mod I have is a K&N air filter. I do a large portion of highway driving so I would be one of the ones that might gain some mpg from the mods. 87,91 and 93 octane are readily available in my areas. Sorry for the long post, but I'm basically dazed and confused at this point. Right now, I'm considering the SCMT 1715 or the Diablo Sport, but I'm just not sure

Thanks
Okay, yes we can program a chip for it.

Since you have 93 available in your area I recommend a DiabloSport chip. Not only is it going to cost less, but we can specifically program for 93 octane. The Superchips Microtuner targets 91 octane and does not take advantage of 93. You'll get the best mileage increase with a chip programmed for the highest octane you can get. The one drawback to the chip is you have to physically install it. Since your truck is still under warranty I recommend checking your dealers's policies on chips. Most are very good about it but some are a real pain. If you suspect they'll give you a hassle then go with the Microtuner.

You're going to find that either will give added driveability and power at all RPMs. The higher the engine speed, the more power they give you. The Diablo will have the slight edge in power.
 
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Old Nov 12, 2003 | 02:08 PM
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Thanks Ken,

Now I just have to figure out if the 91 vs 93 octane performance increase is worth the $$$$.
 
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Old Nov 13, 2003 | 08:06 AM
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I just realized, my octanes around here are 87, 89, and 93, not 91. Will it hurt to run the Supertuner with 93? Also, anyone done the chip "install" and is it difficult?

Thanks
 
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