I wanted to post a quick question even though I already posted a couple similar ones. I bought my new 2002 F-150, XLT, 4x4, crew cab, 5.4 and was so excited I posted 2-3 different posts. I'm sure everyone will have their own opinion, but I would like to know what exhaust system I should install on my truck? Can my truck have a true dual setup or does it require headers? I've been told 9 out of 10 dual exhausts you see are cosmetic and doesn't really make any performance improvements. I'm looking for some good deep sound (not too loud you hear it rumbling with the windows up) and obviously some extra performance. Please tell me what you've done to your F-150 5.4 and let me know if you would of done anything different. I just took the K&N intake system of my 98 and put it on the 02. I was surprised on how much it seems to improve the low end. Maybe I'm just used to the 4.6? The 98 F-150 4.6 had the K&N, Magnaflow exhaust and superchip in it and the 5.4 seems so much stronger. Thanks and I appologize if you've already read some similar posts. Thanks for your time & input. Also can someone explain how an exhaust system effects the performance of a vehicle? Does certain systems effect low end whereas another would effect the top or midrange? I want to be able to smash the throttle and get pushed back into the seat. I know it's not a Viper, but I want it to respond like one. Thank you!!

 

Well I put true duals on mine. 2.5inch pipe and glasspacks. Sounds really nice. You definatley know its there when accelerating, but when cruising at around 65, or if you are standing to the side of the truck, you can barely hear it. also, you DONT need headers for duals.

To big of pipe wont give you enought back pressure and will kill your bottom end. I put to big of pipe on mine and lost bottom end.
There is a chart on Dynomax's website that says what size pipe to use, and for 5.4 I think it is 2.5 . I did get better gas milage though. around 1-2 MPG. If I would have went with 2.25 I probably wouldnt have lost any bottom end.

On top end, you want bigger pipe for better flow.

I havent seen any of you other post, so I may be repeating poeple, but alot of people have the Magnaflow SI/DO system and really like it

 

I asked about 3" compared to 2.25 or 2.5, but this guy with 30 plus years axperience stated he felt the 3" was my best choice. He stated if I didn't have the K&N intake system, he would go with a smaller diameter pipe, but with the K&N I wouldn't lose any bottom end. I've only had the truck for 3-4 days... I already put the K&N intake filter and Flowmaster 50 series on it. I took the K&N off my 98. I just detailed the engine on the 98... getting ready to put it up for sell. Someone is going to get a very well maintained truck. 98 F-150, x-cab, XLT, 4x4, 4.6, 75K with Superchip. The dealer was going to give me 10,600.00, but it books for 12,600-14,700. Thanks for your feedback!!