99 F150, 4.2, k & N air filter,I was told by dealer to always use regular unleaded, that this engines don't required premium gas, the question is if I switch to premium gas would mileage/horsepower/torque increase.
thanks ahead of time.

[This message has been edited by futbol (edited 08-31-2000).]

 

Futbol,
Check out this website. There is a lot of interesting information about gasoline in there. www.vettenet.org/octane.html

 

The stock programming in this vehicle's computer is not optimized for premium fuel. Burning premium fuel will not net you any real benefit, unless you go with a Superchip. The programming in those ARE optimized for premium fuel. It is recommended that you use premium fuel with those, as a matter of fact. If you are wanting increases in horsepower and torque, a Superchip and premium fuel are the best first step. I can't really think of a way to increase your gas mileage other than maybe modifying your driving style, which won't net you much anyway. It's best to live with the mileage that you get now and look to increase your power.

 

NickDJ, that is very good info on gas, thanks for the info.

Preyhunter: already in the plans to go to a superchip and either a 3 inch single exhaust or dual exhaust.

 

I just recently purchased my 2000 F-150XL 4.2, 255/70R16, 3:55 w/4SP Automatic because, of the advertised 20MPG on the window sticker and on the Ford WEB site. I have almost 6Ks on the truck now and it is still only getting 15-16MPG on the highway. I have taken it to two different Ford dealer's shops and they tell me that there is nothing wrong with the way the truck runs. It also has a problem with the hills around here and down shifts not only to third but often down to second. I have been reading several of the board messages about swapping rear gears and the effects of better performance and mileage on their trucks. Anyone swapped gears in their F-150s with the 4.2, V6?

[This message has been edited by fourdeuce (edited 09-09-2000).]

 

Fourdeuce I was having the same shifting problem with my truck and bought a superchip. The way the truck shifts now was well worth the chip.

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99 4.2 XLT Red Flareside Sport, K&N Filter, Black Nerf bars, catback exhaust,Superchip and whatever comes next...

 

99XLT, Thanks for the endorsement. I have read other reports of 4.2 improvement with a super chip. I am one to wait until I think I have enough data to make changes that not only improve performance but, are cost effective as well. I would still like to hear from someone who has changed the rear end ratio from 3:55 to 3:73 or to 4:10. I need more infomation as to what effect that type of swap would have on performance and gas mileage. I really believe that the Ford engineers may have fouled up with the combo that is in my truck.