How can I get more power out of my 5.0 engine in my '89 F-150 4X4? I have heard that there is an ignition modification which will help. Please clarify. Thanks.

 

The 5.0 is probabley the most addressed engine on the market,(besides a Chevy 350)with after market performance upgrades.The most affordable place to start is an High Flow air filter such as a K&N,(either the drop in filter or the full filter charger style kits will both give immediate results),many truck owners on this site have already installed these on 5.0 and they all seem like positive results.Next most logical step is a performance exhaust from the catalytic converter back(Cat Back Exhaust).Then I would consider High energy ignition systems:including ignition conroller, coil,distributer,plugs,wires,and even performance computer chips.A good set of headers and even a performance cam are also very potent.Probably one of the most overlooked improvement is to adjust all of your factory settings for EFI,throttle base line voltage,idle,etc,most small shop mechanics do not perform all of these adjustments when supposedly tuning up your truck engine.I am just now learning the value of these adjustments,through the lucky introduction of a very competent big block Horse power Guru,who is dialing in my supercharged 460,(big improvements in HP and Im almost back up to 8 MPG).Buy some performance truck or off road truck magazines and be amazed at all of the performance parts and adjustments for your 5.0. Good Luck
Jeff

 

I need to replace my exhaust manifolds, so I'm picking up a pair of Hedman headers next week. I've heard that staying with a single pipe but going 3" is the way to go. That cat. converter is stock size. I need to keep that cat on cause there's some wiring from the computer down there. So would there really being a point to 3" if it will restricted at the cat anyhow?

 

The catalytic converters arent as restrictive as you might think,unless they have become plugged through age and mileage.You can go to a high performance cat also.I am currently looking into the best available high flow cat for my 460.I would still recomend a 3" exhaust,it really does let your engine breath better.I still use my catalytic converter,I simply removed my muffeler,and allow the cat to do the muffeling chores and well as its emmission reducing job. With most headers you do not need the muffeler back pressure with the cat still in place.With the reduced back pressure,I do get an occasional "check engine"light,(EGR Valve) coming on when going from high freeway speeds to a very quick stop and go situation.It goes away quickly though,and does not seem to affect anything else.Horse Power and general performance is excelent.I know they are doing awsome performance upgrades on the 5.0 engines for track modifications,the truck engine must be able to reap some of that technology.
Later,
Jeff

 

You could do what I did, I have duals w/o mufflers after the convertor. I immiediately noticed an improvement in mpg and hp.

 

Hey that doesn't sound like a bad deal just using the cat. w/o a muffler. Save money and hassle too. I lost all the tailpipe after the muffler anyhow due to rust. It doesn't sound all that rough if it wasn't for the cracked manifolds that tend to click 'n tick. Thanks for the input.

 

Really cheap! I went with 21/2' stainless pipes that cost me $150 and the echo tips cost me about $30 each. Really doesnt sound all that bad. Can be loud if you want it too, otherwise its bery quiet. I am realitively happy about with em.

 

Good deal. I still have to pick up those Hedman headers this week. I took a look at them and man are they short. They're only like 2 1/2 feet or so. Have you guys heard of that brand before? They're $329 CDN and that's like under $200 of your Uncle Sams right? Maybe too cheap?

When do you think a cat needs replacement. I have like 186,000 kms on mine. Maybe a guy should try to get a new 3" cat instead.

Thanks
Dean