Looking to improve my truck's performance and want to start with the basics... What types of things typically escape needed routine maintenance on these trucks, but will make performance suffer if overlooked?

I have replaced the EGR valve, PCV, and O2 sensor. I know there are tons of other valves, etc. that should be replaced at some point... just don't know which ones or when.

Exhaust has a very malodorous character to it. Clogged cat?

Also, when can one tell that the distributor and coil need replacement?

The truck ('91) has 95,000 miles on it.

Thanks in advance for all replies.

 

plugs
wires
cap & rotor(if you can't remember when the last time was, its due)
rear diff.
front diff.
On mine, I noticed the radiator leaks from the side tanks.
Radiator hoses and CLAMPS are all done around 100k.
breather filter
air filter
check u-joints
check ball joints
check timing
check coolant condition(flush would be good)
lube everything
lube some more
lube hinges, latches ect
check cab mounts
check radius arm bushings
*no particular order*

 

Well it won't really make performance suffer, but Don't forget the transmission fluid....hopefully its been done before. I think this is one of the most neglected maintenance procedures. Even if its a manual, you should change it. They say 30,000miles ,but I like to do it every year.

 

Don't forget the your rubber!!!...like checking tire pressure,rotating tires, maybe even getting the alignment done.

 

Oh, I know ALL about alignment and rubber! My set of Goodyear Wranglers lasted 20,000 miles due to bad alignment. Hope these Coopers last much longer (they still look new after 7,000 hard miles, so...)

 

coopers wear well. i have a set of lifeliner II's . got 30,000+ on them still in good shape

 

I've been impressed with mine so far.

Where is the breather filter located, and what is its function? I'm sure it has never been replaced. :-)

Also, I didn't realize timing could be messed with on these trucks... I'm rather new to that, but thought something I'd read said timing was pretty much not something that would typically need adjustment.

-Mike

 

the crankcase filter is inside your air box . where the hose that runs from next to your oil fill cap goes to . timing is something that should always be checked , just to confirm it is on time .
if ya got the 5.0 it is 10° btdc with the spout connector removed . it is a small grey plastic "block" in the plug on the wiring harness to the distributor.

 

If you want a little more performance from your truck you can usually get away with running a little more that 10* of timing on 87 gas, as long as it doesn't ping.

 

on a 90 bronco 5.0 i actually ran it @ 15deg btdc on 93 octane for @ two years-it wasnt a race car but...it definatly ran a little harder

 

My SPOUT connector is by the scan tool connector. On my 86 Mustang it is by the distributor. I guess it depends on year. Connector looks same though.