I've never factory ordered a truck before - it's hard to wait.
Lots of time to think about options for the project & other questions:

I've been talking to my dealer about Headers - is there a significant improvement to the performance of the 5.4 with the Rouch intercooled SC if I add headers to the equation? (I've already ordered the Roush duel Exhaust)

I'm also going to swap out the factory shocks - lots of debate out there re: Rancho vs Bilstein - the adjustable feature of the Rancho's looks like fun to play with, but there are more good reviews on the Bilsteins? What's the experience here? I'll be 90% street - some light trail stuff. I do have the back loaded up often in the summer & we occasionally pull a light trailer - 3500 pounds(ish)... I have already ordered the upgraded front sway bar from Roush.

Last question - might be silly but - can I launch this truck in 4 wheel drive or will all the extra pony's tear the transfer case out? I gather wheel spin is an issue if your're playing with the truck and I'm curious whether or not you can launch in 4x4 - if yes, is there any advantage or does the extra drive train eat up any gains in traction?

cheers,

 

Expect 8-10 hp from the headers and a little broader sound difference. Can't really help you out with the shocks but I can tell you I love my Bilstein suspension. I have noticed though that the Ranchos are a lot stiffer, but that could be because of the settings.

To answer your 4WD launch, as fun as it sounds.. don't do it very often (if at all) you'll tear up your tansfer case real quick, remember its designed for mud (i.e sliping, climbing, hauling ect..)

Ace

 

Thanks for the feedback. I'll resist any temtation re 4x4 launching. On the headers, dealer says they've called Roush for guidance and Roush don't recomend them... if we're only looking at 8 to 10 extra HP I think I'll wait. Plenty to enjoy with the truck the way she's comming.