I have an 03 5.4 fx4 and I was wondering if headers really make a difference and if I get them what brands are good and can I fit long tubes on my 4x4

 

I have the JBA shorty headers. I did notice a difference, not nearly as much as the long tubes though.... so I have heard. But, they are carb legall and will last just as long as my truck, so I am happy with them.

Now, if you want Long tubes, I believe the only two makers for those are Dynatec and Pacesetter. DO NOT get pacesetter. I first ordered a set of pacesetter mid-length headers and I sent them back. COmpared to the JBA they looked like they were made in a back yard. Ive heard of the ceramic coating flaking off too. Save up a little more $$ and go with the Dynatec. You will not have to replace them 1 year down the road...

If you live in a "green state" then go with shortys if you have run out of things to do to your engine. Its a way to add a little hp, but it isnt a good $$ to horsepower ratio. SO I would do as many mods as you can before you go with shortys. You will never pass smog with Long tubes, making your truck not driveable...

If you havent done much to your truck, I would go in this order...

1. Exhaust (I like my true duals. Must have an X pipe though)
2. Intake - if you are getting the Xcal, get the... 3.5" Af1 I believe it is. It just requires the tuner so that you dont get a lean condition.
3. tbs.
****now, I know ppl are going to give me **** for mentioning a tbs. Everyone says that they do not work for some reason, but i took mine out after reading that to see if there was a difference, and i acutally noticed a hp drop. Maybe it was mental? I dont know... but I am keeping mine. Plus I like the sound.****
4. [Gears if you have large tires.]
5. TUner (Xcal2)
6. maybe some E-fans
7. then headers

If you are getting long tubes, then I would wait untill you have those installed, and probably untill you have done all of your bolt on mods, theennn order the tuner so it is customized to your specific setup.

This is just my opinion, somebody correct me if I am wrong, or if you have a better explanation.

 

ditto

 

I had shorties on my truck, didnt gain a single hp or torque. Put dynatech long tubes on and gained 30hp and 35ftlbs.

 

Dynatech and Pacesetter are what i would get

 

Pacesetter? D'oh! Dynatech for sure!!!! That's the way to go if you can!