So I have been fixing up my 2000 4.2L 5-spd. I have now done a tune-up, Intake mod, K&N filter, and soon I will install a new exhaust. What is the proper way to reset the ECU? I know some vehicles require that you unplug battery for 10-15 mins, start the vehicle and let it idle for 5-10 minutes, some require a certain RPM for a few minutes after unplugging battery, some you just have to unplug battery for a couple minutes and can drive normally.
Is there a recommended reset procedure for these trucks??
Thanks for any info as my search has turned up nothing definitive.

 

I've always heard disconnect the battery then turn the headlights on for 30 seconds or so.

Turn off the lights, reconnect the battery and start her up.

 

Can't tell if this is sarcasm, but I will try it tonight and see if it changes how she runs. The reason I am trying to reset the ECU is cuz it seems to have little power until 3k RPMs. I realize it's a V-6 and maybe that's just how they run, but I don't remember that lag before the K&N.

 

What exact intake mod did you do?

I'd personally get rid of the K&N and put a dry filter on it.

 

If you now have more airflow coming into your intake, give it some time. The computer has recognized an increase in air coming in and it will/should make it's own adjustments. My SVT Focus was the same when I first installed an AEM CAI. It was sluggish at first but then it really started to perform. It was the same way when I went back to the OEM airbox years later but it worked itself out.

Get the K&N crap out of your truck and do what glc said. Dry filters are better in the long run. I will never buy K&N again.

 

Well the 4.2Ls have power, but you are correct when you say they don't open up. At 2500rpm, the IMRCs open, doubling the air volume intake and also fuel intake.

Unplug the (negative post) battery, wait 5-10 mins, and let her idle for 5 mins, and take her down the block driving like a grandma. Turn around, and redline it. The truck will learn the new volumetric air intake levels for the whole RPM range.

 

+1..........................

Since the OEM paper filter isn't the limiting factor for air flow, you won't get any more air flow with the K&N. All you will get is dirt and oil.

 

I tried this method a couple times. I noticed a little better pickup after cutting the engine off after idle period, then starting it and running it hard for a few minutes. It seems the problem has lessened, and the K&N definitely allows more power at high revs (according to the a$$ dyno lol).
Thanks for all the help, guys. These comments will help others down the road I am sure.

 

Just the 3" snorkel pipe/coupler swap. I have had great luck with K&N products over the years, and they last forever with cleaning every 15k or so. I wonder why you guys say they aren't good for these trucks. K&N shows hp gains and gas mileage increase, and I have seen this work on all vehicles I used them on in the past. Anyway, I will see what my mileage comes out to now and see if this is a bad fit for this motor for sure.

 

Yea, ours will. - Yours definitely won't

 

+1................................

 

K&N also doesn't filter anywhere near as well as a dry filter (lets more dust in) and the oil can foul the MAF. I tried a K&N dropin a few years ago before I knew better and my butt dyno noticed NO difference.

 

Aftermarket intakes give you about 1-3hp max. Nothing worth writing home about

 

Interesting cuz you've posted nothing on this thread so far except this. I only asked a question and have posted results...

 

Interesting ? Well, I guess it could be . You asked a question and don't like the results. So you became defensive about a product that has proved to be not such a good idea for these model Ford truck engines.

Post all the results you want, but what helps yourself and others most,- is to listen to the information your receiving from tech's, long time and very knowledgeable members from this site.

So if your going to post results? You can. For me its thanks, but no thanks. Besides, you already have. Doesn't hold water because it contradicts years of other users findings. Others and I have tried the K&N system with this model year Ford. Save yourself some time and money by searching out a product like that in the forums on this site. That way, you may learn to post correct results from knowing what to look for.

In the mean time.

There's no need to discredit other users answers to your questions. Since most here do know what they're talking about. In time, that will prove itself.