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I have a '01 XLT Supercab with the 5.4 engine, 4 speed auto, AC, 4x4 and tow package with 185,000 miles. Sticker price was $31,550. Put in a Jasper auto trans, rebuilt the suspension and had a Katzen leather interior installed. After pricing new Rangers and F-150's, I've decided to throw some more money at my '01. Tow capacity is 8500# and I'm considering a trailer to replace a motor home. The factory 4X4 package is very harsh ride and trying to figure out how to change the suspension without compromising the tow capacity. I will either do a an engine rebuild with headers or install a new Jasper engine.
Your thoughts?
Check your door sticker for the numbers your truck can tow. Remember that people and gear will subtract from your total capacity of payload. Half ton trucks usually max out on payload capacity before they max out on towing capacity. The tongue weight is approx. 10-15% of your trailer weight.
That engine is fine with 185k. If anything there are mild cams around you can install for more go. Check Modular Head Shop. BBK and JBA make good shorty headers, no clue who makes long tubes for these. Stock muffler flows like crap, I cut one open...so swap it with whatever you like. I prefer mild stuff.
No idea how good or bad stock air intake is, but both my 5.4s have a Voilant kit. Sealed box to fender. I scored them used so decided to run them.
The intake manifolds are known to fail with age. Swapping to the updated Ford one and Felpro HD gaskets is smart and easy.
A tuner from SCT with 5star tunes really makes a huge difference in midrange power on these. I drive about in 87 econ mode, works just fine.