I dont have a programmer yet and quite frankly im a little apprehensize about getting one. I ve been doing some research and think ive narrowed it down to S&B, Volant, AF1. I think I might like the fully enclosed design better. I was just wondering what you guys thought would help out the 5.4 the most without a programmer just intake. Let me know what you guys think. Thanks

 

Hi.

A little more research is in order; if you dig, you'll discover (at least) these things ( all the info below wa culled from existing data on this site via Search):

- the 5.4 3V 04+ engines are extremely sensitive to intake tract changes

- Volants choke above 4,000 rpm

- Volants (and others) have been known to exacerbate lean conditions on stock 5.4 3V's. That's why custom MAF transfer functions exist for those units.

- AF1 3" requires no tuning but makes more power than the others

- S&B requires no tuning, allegedly, but I would confirm

- Your reason for believing a closed system is superior to an open one doesn't bear examination of the facts as tested & stated by TP, other than personal preference or appearance. The (non)-issue of IAT's is moot & has been beaten to death already.

- Top dog to-date is AF1 3.5" but requires custom tuning.

You are doing the right thing by researching this before deciding. Read all you can, make good use of the Advanced Search function (hint - the best intake data & info is actually in the Chips forum), and then pick what makes sense to you.

I'd also recommend you call Mike Troyer for a complete dissertation on this subject; no strings & it'll only cost you some LD charges - you'll be glad you did.

To be fair, of all the closed systems I think S&B has done the best job by far, and if it weren't for AF1 it would likely be the one I'd go with...

Good luck

Cheers
bubba