I have done the K&N FIPK and the exhuast mods and I think I am ready for the chip. I have a 2001 SuperCrew, 5.4L with towing package (with the slim radiator "mod"), 3.55 rear end.

The question(s):

How much will the chip help with towing a 7000# travel trailer (assume it will, some), but would like some real world expereinces.

How much would the 3.73 gears help ? Any idea on cost and where to get them installed in the San Diego, CA. ?


Any thoughts on which one to do first ?

Thanks,
Al

Link to Trailer - Truck pic

 

Hi Al Welcome!

I do tow..but truck is different. Maybe someone here that has same with mods. will reply.

Just my thoughts...passing on..

Just be sure of your trucks axle/GVWR/GCWR etc. Match the TT to your truck.

If at all possible..if you can test tow (7000#) thats alot. That will tell you what you may/maynot need to do. If not..then just be sure you match TT to your truck. You'll know soon enough what you may/maynot need to do. ( chip...gears...etc))

I did similiar mods as you...last being the schip (mtroyer) In my case it gave me that little bit extra hp/tq i was looking for. Im also satisfied with the better shifting in the a/t.

3.55/3.73 gears are so close..if i was going to the expense of changing gears...i'd go with the 4.10s. Changing gears may/ maynot be worth it? Mts/hills VS mostly flat VS city driving. How often do you tow and where?

Others have posted here on gear costs etc. A local call for you.

Good luck...OT

 

We just got through pulling out 5000# loaded 5ver over the pass between Durango and Silverton. I would not want to do that pull with 7000# +?. Do ypur self a favor and check out RV.NET irv2.infopop.net

Do a search for F-150 and you will be suprised what you find.

I plan on upgrading to LT rated tires to replace the joke P stock tires.

Tranny temp is good info in a pinch. Can warn you of impending tranny problems.

 

I installed the Hypertech power Programmer III onto our stock 97 F150 with the 4.6. The first time I towed our 6500 lb 5th wheel it pinged BADLY going through the hills (from sea level to about 2000 feet). I contacted Hypertech and sent the programmer back for an update. Received it back, re-installed it and had the same results. Around town with no load it ran fine and had more low end power. It would only ping coming our of OD under hard acceleration (no trailer). I ended up selling our Hypertech and purchasing the Gibson Super Truck exhause system

 

I found that the biggest difference (not including the blower) came from going to 4.10's. 3.55 is too tall for towing a big load.

Once I changed to 4.10's, I added the Superchip for two reasons: 1) more power and 2) correct the speedo error from the gear change.

I tow a 7000# trailer and have never had pinging with the superchip.

Ian