Hi Everyone,

I'm a proud owner of a 2002 F150 Fx4. Out of all the vehicles that I test drove, this one by far was the nicest. I'm a Ford guy anyway, but the used Dodge's and GM's that I drove felt like junk on the road.

I know that it's not a new truck, but it's new to me. It's been 5 years since I've had a truck. My last truck got over 300k miles on it and it smoked so bad that I had to stick my head out the window.

I've bought the rain guards and soon I'll be purchasing the side steps, visor, and brush guard.

I'm wondering where I should go next?

Our Fx4 runs great, tows great, but the Triton leaves a little bit to be desired when I'm feely spunky! I was wondering about dual exhaust, performance chips, and possibly even a cam. I'm not an expert but do know my way around the engine... well, it did take me a while to find the spark plugs. Ford has definately changed the windsor motors since my old mustang days. If I did go this route, is there a package where I could get all of them matching as I've read that putting in a cam could require updating your chip.

I'm looking to you guys (and ladies) for your expertise and experience.

Thanks in advance for your time and consideration.

ps. Is there a scheduled maintaince list somewhere I could use? I'm at 70k so I'm sure it's about time for a few things.

Thanks again and I hope that you are enjoying your truck as much as my wife and I are enjoying ours.

Your friends in Virginia,
Paul & Susan
paul@virginia.com
susan@virginia.com

 

I thought the Triton was always the 5.4L V8 - which I believe is a 351W (Windsor) motor. However, reading through the forums, I've seen others refer to a 4.x Triton motor.

 

The Triton V8 comes in 4.6L (281 ci)and 5.4L (330 ci). If you have the 5.4, you should have some pretty decent power. It probably needs some maintainance to bring it back to life. I would look in to a fuel filter, air filter, tranny service (flush and filter), coolant change, spark plugs (although they are supposed to be good for 100k), and differential fluids (I assume its 4x4, since its a FX4). If your still not satisfied, then look into some mods. Good luck, hope that helps.

 

Hi Elder User,

Oh yeah, don't get me wrong. The truck runs great and it is strong. However, it is a heavy vehicle and I'm not looking for much umph. My previous truck was a Chevy S10 with a 6-cylinder and it ALWAYS seems underpowered.

The 5.4L seems to be just perfect for this size truck. I'm not a speed deamon or need a big-block with a zillion horsepower. Just something to give it a little bit more umph and my world would be complete.

Thanks again for your time Mr. Elder!

Your friend and fellow Ford fan,
Paul L

 

If you have the 5.4L, it should be able to move right along.

As triton said, check out the condition of the plugs, filters, etc.

If you need new plugs go with Motorcraft double plats or Autolite double plats....unless you like to change plugs on this motor.

http://www.fordtrucks.com/articles/2003/10.php

Make sure you have plenty of 1/4" and 3/8" u-joints and extensions!

 

Does that ever make me feel old......

Anyway, your welcome ptlinva and hope you enjoy FTE
Check out my gallery, if you want some ideas for future mods.