I agree. I also think there is this "popular opinion" that a flat 12.0-to-mid 11s A/F ratio is "optimal".

My A/F curve is'nt anywhere near flat, my plugs look perfect, and my EGT are in the "zone"

Rich

 

That is exactly what I am planning on doing. I just bought a 2004 Lightning and am waiting on the Whipple to be the first mod.

 

Exactly! Why would we believe someone like Sal, Johnny, or Jim who worked on thousands of trucks when you have observed something on ONE truck..

 

I don't think the whipple performance will blow the KB away, though it may be a bit more reliable. I have had zero probs with mine but we've all heard plenty of KB failure stories. I think the only way it might out perform the KB is due to the slight gain in efficiency due to the rear inlet being optimum. If all this is true you will prob be able to pick used KB's up for $1500 all day.

 

How much do you understand business? And in particular the mail order business of hot rod parts?

BTW: My truck was tuned at one of the Vendors.

Rich

 

Remember that Richard Holdener got 522 rwHP in his KB test with the stock ECU and fuel system. He was running 100 octane, though.

If you listen to the tuners -- and many others around here -- the stock fuel system is done at 450 rwHP. And a chip is needed for a 4 lb pulley.

A complete replacement intake system from a trusted company (and with FRPP's seal of approval) is the best performance deal for the Lightning that I have ever seen. In essence, the Whipple kit gives you the intake tract from the Gen 3L/GT. I'm dumping all my cash into a garage/house right now, or I'd be first in line for the 2.3 Whipple.

 

Again, you know your truck. Any time someone mentions something about a 6lb pulley we hear "I beat them all the time". Well, maybe your truck is a poor example of what the average Lightning will do? Maybe you got the Tuesday morning and someone brought in Krispy Kremes truck that is better than everyone elses. I don't know the answer to that, but I also discount your results because very few other people post similar results.

The tuners - sure they are running a business. Some of them will do anything for a few bucks. Then again, some of them are very honest and put their customers before an extra dime in profit (Sal comes to mind). So ya, I trust their experience working on 1000 trucks over your experience.

Not meant as a flame against you, but do you think your results are average? Do you think comparing anyone elses truck to yours is a valid comparison?

-Mark

 

Maybe not, but I sure would hate to see you when you decided to flame.

Rich's opinion has very high value to me. Unlike most tuners, Rich is a genuine Ford engineer. Unlike all tuners, he has no incentive to recommend something that I don't need. For instance, these same tuners sell "Cobra R" pumps that add almost nothing, yet compromise the cooling system. Unlike most tuners, I cannot remember him stating anything that I find to be suspect.

And I agree with Rich that the automotive aftermarket is one of the most corrupt and dishonest business segments in modern America.

 

I have to say I'm with Tim & Rich on this one!


Suavy

 

Tim,

I work at major brokerage firm, yet I am not an expert on stocks. Now ask me about SEC data retention regulations and I'll give you everything you need to know

Rich is the undisputed water pump expert. I have never questioned his knowledge of that product. That does not make him any more informed than me and you about other parts of the vehicle.

How many people ask Gregg Evans about ideal A/F ratios?

My premise is that his vehicle with those mods performs better than most other Lightnings with those mods, thus it is a poor example to compare against. I have seen nothing to dispute that so far.

Now, how is that or anything I've said previously a flame? I do not question his results or his honesty. He just obviously didn't get a truck made after a three day holiday weekend if you know what I mean.

-Mark