Lightning Differences?
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Freshman User
Joined: Apr 2003
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From: Largo, FL
Lightning Differences?
I have a '95 F-150 with a 5.8L motor and was just wondering what the difference between my motor and the Lightning motor are. Also, would it be difficult to convert my motor to "Lightning specs?" Thanks!
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From: Calhoun GA
As far as the eninges go....The GEN 1's used Hypereutectic pistons, different cam GT-40 heads, GT-40 intakes, 65mm FMS TB, headers and a more aggresive ECM (speed density) tune from the factory. There are other difference too....thicker frame, suspension, tranny, driveshaft, gears (4.10's) etc....
As far as converting your engine to Lightning specs...GT-40 heads can be found cheap, as well as the intakes. There are other details that will need to be addressed when doing this conversion like the inlet tubing, and the throttle cable to name a few. Hope that helps.
As far as converting your engine to Lightning specs...GT-40 heads can be found cheap, as well as the intakes. There are other details that will need to be addressed when doing this conversion like the inlet tubing, and the throttle cable to name a few. Hope that helps.
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Joined: Apr 2003
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From: Largo, FL
Wow, the frame and pistons difference supprised me. Maybe, I would be better off just sticking a blower on what I have. What are everyone's opinions on different blower companies? Vortch, Paxton, Powerdyne, Procharger, etc...?
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Joined: Dec 1999
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From: Copley, OH
Blowers work MUCH better with hypereutectics, especially above 6 PSI or so. Having said that, among the centrigugals the Vortech units are generally regarded as being more durable than the Powerdynes and Vortech's installation kits are reputed to be quite complete. Paxton and Vortech are now the same company.
If you want low to mid range boost, you might be better off with a positive displacement unit like a Whipple or an Eaton
If you want low to mid range boost, you might be better off with a positive displacement unit like a Whipple or an Eaton
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2001
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From: Topsfield, MA
I think the stock 351 (not lightning) are cast pistons right? Those won't take boost very well. i've read in an engine book I have that Hypereutectics are somewhat ok for boost but....forged would be better.
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From: Copley, OH
Forged are necessary at high boost, somewhere around 12 PSI on up. For moderate boost, the hypereutectics have some real advantages because they fit the bores more closely and run quieter but have greatly increased strength over the stock cast pistons.
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Freshman User
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From: Largo, FL
There was some guy in the new MM&FF magazine with a stock bottom end pushing 15 lbs. and running 11's. Pretty good if you ask me. Thanks for all the input/answers guys!
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From: Calhoun GA
I ran 13-14psi of non intercooled boost through a Vortech SQ for a year. When I pulled the heads, the hyper-t pistons were in perfect condition...I could still see the factory line hone marks on the cylinder walls too. 8-10psi will be fine on cast pistons, but I would recommend getting a chip for a safe tune....especially if you plan on running higher boost levels in the future. An intercooler would also work wonders on lowering the discharge temps, allowing you to make more power and increasing the life of your shortblock. I picked up an intercooler from a 99+ Powerstroke Diesel for $145 shipped. These can be had off of Ebay for $200 or less. I can post a couple intercooler install pics if you are interested.
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Joined: Oct 2003
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From: North East
FWIW, the lightning frame is no more than a 4X4 frame with 2WD componants.
Blurry,
I just stroked my 94 Lightning to 396 and am planning on continuing to run my s-trim so I would love to see some pics of your intercooler install! Thanks!
Blurry,
I just stroked my 94 Lightning to 396 and am planning on continuing to run my s-trim so I would love to see some pics of your intercooler install! Thanks!
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