What is "step 1" to better performance of 5.0?

[Thallarsen]

I have a stock '99 Limited 5.0 AWD. It's kind of a dog off the line. I think that this is normal for this vehicle, but its a V8 dammit!
It's running really well; averaging 19 mpg for 70% highway. New plugs, Taylor Spiro wires, clean injectors, clean filter, etc.
What is the 1st Step to better off the line performance? I know that this is an open ended question where the answer could be from a K&N filter to a supercharger.
I'm guessing that there's a general consensus with those out there experienced with bumping up the 5.0 performance as to where to start. Aftermarket air filter? Air box? Exhaust? Chip?
I'm looking for Step 1 in regard to cost & simplicity of install.
Thanks,
J.P.

 

[section525]

Well, i think step one would be: open her up.

Get a Mac intake, or KKM, or something along those lines and a custom catback exhaust system. Get that air flowing through there faster and smoother.

Secondly, I'd get an Apten chip.

 

[terdrocket]

I second what Section just said. I have the KKM, true duals, and now an Apten chip. BIG difference. Much quicker than stock, even in 100º weather with my 265/75/16's.

 

[Thallarsen]

Thanks for the tips....

Terdrocket, for the dual exhaust, I assume that you have to replace the exhaust manifolds, or do you? I was suprised at how small the castings look on the manifolds. It looks like headers would "open 'er up" quite a bit.
I'm a little nervous about messing with all the emissions sensors, etc. I've been on a long ride trying to get that CEL to turn off (I went through umpteen EGR diag's & attempted fixes before I turned to the list & got the correct fix....the differential sensor).
Would going with an aftermarket intake mess with the MAF? Is intake the airbox, or are we talking about what I visualize when I think of a carbureted V8 intake (manifold)?
What happens to the exhaust sensors when you go with a dual exhaust (or any custom exhaust for that matter)?
If I go with these mods, what are the good dual exhaust setups (pre-bent, bolt-on), or are we talking true custom (bent at the pipe shop)?

Thanks,
J.P.
BTW, is Terdrocket the name of your canine avatar?

 

[terdrocket]

For the exhaust, leave the cat. converters alone. Run piping and mufflers behind them. (Thus the term cat-back)

For the intake use the KKM, or go to Explorer Express
The avatar is my Great Dane, named Sterling.
He acts more like he should be named Terdrocket though, or Jackass.

 

[V8BoatBuilder]

What's great about the stock exhaust it that it can be made a true-dual system for not too much. If you notice, there are seperate exhaust pipes from the manifolds to the muffler, where they combine. Flowmaster makes a 2.25" dual in/dual out 50 series which would be perfect -I'll be getting one soon.

I put on a MAC intake and I have nothing but good things to say. It has a great sound, gave a small, but noticible increase in performance (only when the engine is under heavy load), but most of all gave me an honest 2 MPG increase. With gas @ 1.75/gal - it will pay for itself.

 

[Thallarsen]

V8BoatBuilder,
I took a look at Flowmaster's site, looking for something for a 5.0 Explorer. I didn't see anything. Is there something in a 'dual package' for the 5.0's or is it more of a custom 'build your own' kind of deal.
Did you choose the MAC over the KKM after comparing the two, or just opt for the MAC?
I'm thinking that the two mods (Intake and Exhaust) would be 1st & 2nd in order of performance steps; with the chip coming in third.
I'll probably hold off on a chip for now & see what the intake/exhaust upgrades do for the performance.
J.P.

 

[wbandyjr]

I just put a Mac intake on mine..I like the sound it added.,However it seems like i have to give it the gas to make it sound good..I think i will do my exhaust next..I see alot about the flowmaster 50. How much does this cost?
My truck runs in two modes it seems. It likes to act like a V8 sometimes and other times it takes forever to pick up speed and i am affraid to pass cars sometimes.On V8 mode i like the jolt at takeoff..

As far as gas mileage..My truck is wierd. I get a normal of 240 miles a tankful.. After having tranny service and gas system cleaned with wynn.. I was getting close to 400.. Now i am at point it fluquates 220-300

What would the exhaust do for me? And does anyone have this typ problem?