Last week I test drove a 1999 F150 XLT SuperCab with 4.6 V8. It had plenty of power for my needs and as a result I bought it (First Time F150 Owner ) When I test drove it it had a check engine light on but it was under warranty so the dealership took it back to the back and checked it over. As it turns out the MAF was unplugged. They plugged it back in and now it seems that the truck does not have as much power as it did. Could this be possible? Does this seem like the MAF is dirty so that when it is plugged in it does not give accurate readings? Any help would be greatly appreciated

 

what happens when the MAF is unplugged the computer goes into close loop and does not use any sensors. Just the amount of gas to determine what it needs. Basically does the same thing a WOT.

Sounds like the dealer kind of suckered you, especially if someone knows this. I would never even look at a truck with a Check Engine light when started. Just too many things that could snowball down the road on you.

But hope is not lost. There are a few things that you can do. You have a air silencer and a baffle in the intake. Remove both and that will pep up the motor. Also a good catback system would help you out and keep the warranty in effect.

Other than that, people will tell you to chip it, etc for more power. There is a few free mods that can be done to speed up the performance of the truck. Dont expect miracles, just small gains that add up.

 

Thanks Matt. Actually the dealer fixed the check engine light under warranty BEFORE I agreed to buy the truck. Is there any place I can get some more info on the mods you mentioned? Thanks for the help.

 

https://www.f150online.com/tech/airbox.html

http://www.fordf150.net/howto/airintake.htm