OK, this is going to seem like some real newbie questions, but figured that this is the best place to get the right answers to them, so here goes. (For reference sake, I have '97 STX with 4.2, auto, and 38000 miles)

1) How do you determine the gear ratio in the rearend of my truck?
2) Would like to lower the stance of my truck some, what is better, the 2/4 or the 3/4 drop, plus, what gives the smoothes ride, without being harsh.
3) I still have factory tires on truck (275/60/17 Goodyear Eagle GT2) that will soon need to be replaced. I have the factory wheels (17x8 cast alum) and was wondering what is good replacement tire for proformance. I don't drag much, but I do a bunch of high-speed interstate driving. Would like something with higher speed rating, and good wet/dry traction too.
4) If I choose to go a wider tire, and taller wheel combo, will that change my final drive ratio to the point that my speedo and odometer(sp) no longer are calibrated?
5) I have a K&N air filter in the factory box, but have been thinking about maybe changing to an AirRaid system? Can someone give me details about what bonuses or minuses an AirRaid system might have.
6) Is going to a true Syn. oil worth the extra expense? I have used Havoline or Pennzoeil 5/30 since I purchased, and change regularly. Plus, I use Prolong Oil Additive.

Ok, that's enough questions for now. I love my truck, and even though I would love a 5.4 or even 4.6, I don't regret having a 4.2. I owned an '88 F150 with 4.9 straight 6 w/ 5-speed, and put 150k on it. This engine has a butt load more power than the straight 6 did. Yeah, yeah, the straight 6 had more torque, but for top speed you need HP not FT/LB.

------------------
'97 F150 STX
Look on Yahoo profile page for pictures.

 

To respond to #2. I went with a Belltech 2/2 drop. Cost me about $200 for parts and $200 for labor.


------------------

98 XL, 4.2L, 5-speed, Pendaliner bedliner, SlimTop flushmount tonneau, ASP crank underdrive pulley, Gibson split duals, Gibson engraved tips, Clarion CD player, Belltech 2/2 drop.(Springs, shocks,and shackles)

Future
-Vortech Supercharger
-Autometer boost and tach guages.
-Superchip
-brushed aluminum dash kit
-10" sub
-Wet Okole seat covers

 

#1 Look at the axle code on the driver's door sticker under axle code; look at the codes posted under "drivetrain".
#3 aren't those tires rated T/118mph? You may want to ask this in the "wheels and tires" area. I've seen many great posts on this there.
#4 Any substantial change in "height" over factory tires change the speedo.
#5 The airbox elimination kits (FIPKs) add 12 HP or so, the filter alone only adds a few HP.
#6 If you can afford it, yes, synthetic is a superior product and cheap insurance with todays vehicle/engine/repair costs.
Happy Truckin'


------------------
2000 F-150 XL, RC, LB, 5.4L, 4R70W, 3.55LS,
Class III tow, Payload #3, & Convenience pkgs.,
4-wheel disc/ABS, Chestnut/Parchment 40/60,
Ford bedliner w/Paintsaver & gas/wheel/spare locks,
K&N F.I.P.K. w/Outwears pre-filter, Superchip,
Dynomax ultra-flow welded 3" cat-back w/ 3" Y-pipe,
Hellwig front & rear anti-sway bars, Rancho RS 9000s,
Mobil 1, K&N oil filter.