Thought I had it all figured out until I read some posts on here about "lean" conditions.

I have an '04 4.6L and have decided to replace the stock intake with a CAI system. I am not completely sure on brand as of yet, but I'm leaning toward the Outlaw. Now here is the million dollar question all us truck mod newbies want to know... once I install this intake will I need to re-program the onboard computer via one of the custom tuners to keep from having a lean condition? I am also replacing the exhaust with a SI/SO catback if that makes any differance. Another question is... if it does need a tuner will one of the canned programs work or will it need to be a customized tune for my particular intake/exhaust set-up. How much does a custom tune cost? Can it be done by giving specs to one of the reps via online download or will I need to drive my truck in?

Also whether it needs it or not I am contemplating such a purchase anyway since the intake and exhaust reps have told me it would make the most differance in HP/MPG. So far I have liked what I have read about the XCAL2. Is it safe to buy a used system? How much of a deal is it to switch between trucks? Most used ones are $150 or so... will it end up costing more than a new one to have it reprogrammed?

One more question ... I read on here somewhere that the increase in MPG on the High Octane tune will more than offset the increased cost for the higher octane fuel. Can anyone on here confirm that statement?

Thanks

 

it's hard to say whether or not you'll be lean, but chances are you might. You are letting more air in and flowing more gas out, but not adding any fuel by running the stock map.

Be careful buying a used Xcal2. Each time it is hooked up to a vehicle, it registers itself to that vehicle and unless you return that vehicle to it's stock map, it won't work on a different vehicle. Then you will still need to get maps for your truck to use with the Xcal2.

You can send in your specs to a tuner and have them burn you a map, assuming they have the flow characteristics of the individual components you used. You would need to talk to them about that. I had mine done by TROYER, but I used a CAI and exhaust system he has the specs on so it was low risk to me not to have to take my truck in.

You can buy a "canned" tuner and they will work, but like with anything "tuning wise", the absolute best way is to take your truck in where it can be put up on a dyno with a sniffer and then the map can be made specific to your vehicle and the components you used and your motors characteristics. The cost difference between a Edge and a Xcal2 is minimal in my opinion. Plus you have the added benefit of getting new maps down the road if you do more mods.

You are like most of us, there are a ton of options out there, you need to decide what works best for you. I knew I would be doing more down the road to my 07, so I opted for the Xcal2 with custom maps. I have room to grow. With a tool like the Edge or a chip, you get what you get and that is it. Now one might argue that Edge puts out updates for their units, and that is true, but those maps are "generic" and not specifically tailored to your vehicle and it's configuration. Not knocking Edge at all, they are a decent tuner, I like custom mapping though. It really makes a difference.

regarding your last question

"One more question ... I read on here somewhere that the increase in MPG on the High Octane tune will more than offset the increased cost for the higher octane fuel. Can anyone on here confirm that statement?"

I doubt that very seriously. While I am sure you are more energy efficient with a custom map, you'll find that gains of 1-2 MPG are about the best you can hope for. Especially since with the increased performance you'll find you have your foot it in it more............I did mine for better throttle response and driveability and I got just what I wanted. My truck runs great now compared to stock. I am very happy with my Xcal2 maps from troyer and I used a AirForce 1 CAI and a Magnaflow 16612 catback on my 07 FX2.

 

Thanks Firebolter for your input, I probably will go with a tuner when I change the airbox just because I plan on keeping this truck and would rather be safe than sorry. Also think I will go with a new unit when the time comes, I can see now that the computer codes vary as well as any mods so chances are slim I would find a used programmer already setup to go (mine is BYS0).
I figured as much on the MPG, oh well as long as it doesn't get any worse than what I'm currently getting (16-17 Hwy) the improved performance will be worth the initial expense to me. I have to admit the stock setup with the 4.6L is pretty doggy, I can tell a hugh differance from my F-150 and my wife's Jeep Grand Cherokee with 4.7L