1981 f-100 performance
1981 f-100 performance
New User
Joined: Jun 2006
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The 1st trick I would do is not start a post on a FORD forum by saying that I'm a hardcore chevy guy, but I can't hold a grudge you are driving a Ford. That is the first step in recovery. So welcome.
I don't have a huge list of tricks for you, but it would help if we had a little more information about the truck. (like the motor size)
There are some standard performance upgrades. A K&N filter or other high flow air filter (being cheap is realative I got mine at a swap meet for 20 bucks), a carb spacer will give you a little more power for next ot nothing. If you have a small block aluminum intakes and 4 barrel carbs will definatly give it plenty of pep, but I'm not sure as to what effect that would have on the computer. THe exaust is really the only place to go from there and eaust work can add up quick. Sorry I couldn;t be more help. There are plenty of people here that will know alot more than me.
I don't have a huge list of tricks for you, but it would help if we had a little more information about the truck. (like the motor size)
There are some standard performance upgrades. A K&N filter or other high flow air filter (being cheap is realative I got mine at a swap meet for 20 bucks), a carb spacer will give you a little more power for next ot nothing. If you have a small block aluminum intakes and 4 barrel carbs will definatly give it plenty of pep, but I'm not sure as to what effect that would have on the computer. THe exaust is really the only place to go from there and eaust work can add up quick. Sorry I couldn;t be more help. There are plenty of people here that will know alot more than me.
Post Fiend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 14,325
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From: Island Southeast Alaska
So what engine ya got Buz. and how is it set up. The 80 and 81s i had were two barrel carbed dogs with 351M/400. But with some work. and not all that much thy would squall. The biggest problem with the early 80's is that they can't breathe
Senior User
Joined: Apr 2005
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From: Lynchburg, VA
Originally Posted by arctic y block
So what engine ya got Buz. and how is it set up. The 80 and 81s i had were two barrel carbed dogs with 351M/400. But with some work. and not all that much thy would squall. The biggest problem with the early 80's is that they can't breathe
Post Fiend
Joined: Jan 2006
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From: North of Normal
I agree need to know the engine size. Your mileage and transmission along with your rear end (gears) will help with the answers. But the most common is.
1. alum intake with a 4 bbl carb
2.headers and true dual exhaust
1. alum intake with a 4 bbl carb
2.headers and true dual exhaust
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New User
Joined: Jan 2007
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Originally Posted by buzerdf-100
hay i am a hardcore chevy fan and now i am driving a 1981 f-100. anybody know any performance tricks that is low cost? i want to get more power out of it.
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Post Fiend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 14,325
Likes: 14
From: Island Southeast Alaska
I don't know if we need ta go much farther. But I gota try.
1) 302 is a small block V8, like 289- 351W
2) 300 inline 6
What do you have? One or the Other. Don't know how ta come up with a 302 I6
1) 302 is a small block V8, like 289- 351W
2) 300 inline 6
What do you have? One or the Other. Don't know how ta come up with a 302 I6
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Post Fiend
Joined: Sep 2006
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From: Island Southeast Alaska
Dose it have two valve covers or one? How many spark plugs? What is the VIN number? Any stickers or tags on the air cleaner, under side of hood, Valve cover(s), Radiator support, Drivers door post?
Inquiring minds need to know.
Inquiring minds need to know.
Elder User
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 517
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From: Texas
Originally Posted by buzerdf-100
hay i am a hardcore chevy fan and now i am driving a 1981 f-100. anybody know any performance tricks that is low cost? i want to get more power out of it.
Want performance? Crate 460 514,535 this will make everyone take note.
Want some giddy-up and roast some tires? 351W H.O. or 351C CobraJet.
No matter what you do, you will need to beef up the front suspension and toss the stock rotors and brackets. You will need at least F-150 heavy duty springs, rotors, and calipers along with the front sway bar. Rear should be a 9" 31 spline axles for 1981, this is a good setup. All you need are some traction bars, rear antisway, and either the Ford trac-loc or Detroit locker.
The 302 is lame because these trucks are just too heavy, don't waste your time or money on a 302. These trucks need at least 400 horsepower to be fun, (more is better), or you may as well have a 4.9L six banger in there for hauling horse saddles and tent post pegs.
Last edited by 82F1507.5; Jan 28, 2007 at 04:26 AM.
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