Looking for Ford F150 5.4 performance upgrades but don’t know what will give you the most revs for your environmentally friendly? You are in luck, because other daring individuals have gone before you, with totally converted F-150 vehicles that outpace a group of wild stallions in terms of horsepower. We’ve spent the time on forums, reading consumer reviews, and performing our own Ford F-150 performance upgrades to provide you with all of the knowledge you need about the greatest aftermarket modifications that you can accomplish this weekend in your truck.
Check out the list of Ford F150 5.4 Performance Upgrades
The Ford 5.4-L V8 is a naturally aspirated V8 with a displacement of 5.4 liters. It’s used in full-size SUVs and pickup trucks from Ford. It has a single and dual overhead cam configuration with a V layout. Since 1997, it’s been in production.
This engine is a long-term Ford design, and it’s likely to be in many of the vehicles you could buy today. This engine’s “Built to last” and “Ford Tough” are important characteristics that helped the firm establish a reputation for power-built trucks.
Let’s take a closer look at what these engines are, how they function, and answer some frequently asked questions.
History of the Ford 5.4 Engine
The Ford 5.4 or Triton engine is one of the company’s most popular trucks and SUVs. This car has a 5.4-L naturally aspirated V8 engine. The 2014 Ford F-250 with a 5.4-L engine produces 255 horsepower, according to specs.
They were created and first released in 1997, and they’re part of the Ford Modular family. They are still used today, with the E-Series van being their most popular application.
The big truck engine was originally intended to accommodate larger vehicles, but it has also been used in the company’s sports cars. These engines have gone through a number of changes over time.
The first version of this vehicle had a SOHC engine. The three-valve SOHC design was introduced by the company in 1999. In place of four valves, they switched to a four-valve dual-overhead-cam instead in this generation. It aided to boost fuel efficiency and performance when they made this transition.
The transformation was not without difficulty, however. Ford designers risked a lot with this change in order to make its Ford trucks more approachable and useful for those people who would use them on a daily basis.
This engine has won a number of accolades over the years, with its overall durability and power being the most common. This engine is revered as a workhorse by many Ford vehicle owners. That’s why it has been used in millions of automobiles.
Which Models Have a Ford 5.4 Engine?
The 5.4-liter Ford engines may be found in a variety of previous cars. These engine types were introduced throughout the life of the engine:
Ford Expedition
Ford E-Series
Ford Falcon
Ford F-150
Ford GT
Ford Mustang
Lincoln Blackwood
Lincoln Navigator
Top F-150 Performance Mods
The Ford F150 is without a doubt the finest pickup on the market, whether we’re talking about popularity or overall performance. The Ford F150 is the winner, representing the vehicle that is built to last in the harsh world of today. It’s a testament to our perseverance and sheer determination that we’ve managed to accomplish what we have thus far. Your truck can easily handle windy roads, rolling hills, and difficult pathways because to its insane power and torque levels. It’s possible that your truck doesn’t accelerate as well any more or for as long as it used to, which means you should look at increasing your horsepower and torque levels if it doesn’t now.
An engine is simply a glorified air pump. The more air and fuel you can cycle through the cylinders, the greater amount of power you will be able to create. RV Performance’s components merely aided in the breathing of the Ford 5.4L better.
The K&N Filtercharger replaces the paper element and plastic housing with an oil-impregnated gauze element and high-flow intake tube, according to K&N. This provides a 30 to 50 percent increase in airflow, claims K&N. To maintain emissions legality, all sensors and connections from the stock assembly have been transferred to the K&N device.
The Gibson after-cat exhaust combines mandrel-bent 3-inch pipes and a high-flow muffler from Gibson. The system raises mid and upper rpm power while also making the engine operate more smoothly, allowing for extra horsepower to be sent to the rear wheels. We were pleasantly surprised to discover that the Gibson exhaust produces a meatier sound without being overly loud.
With the K&N and Gibson parts, more fuel was required for the engine. The JET Performance Products module connects to the factory ECU diagnostic test socket to modify the engine’s timing and fuel delivery management. There is no need to remove the JET module during servicing since the test port is utilized only at the factory during assembly. The chip does not improve performance at low rpm, but it does adjust ignition timing and increase fuel input from approximately 2,500 rpm on up.
Upgrades Ford F150 5.4 Cold-Air Induction
When it comes to inexpensive, almost-free power upgrades for a new vehicle, air is the end point. The colder the intake-air charge, the more efficient an engine becomes. Colder air is denser and contains greater amounts of oxygen (for a given volume of air). The extra oxygen allows the engine to burn more fuel, which helps it generate more power. The force or “ramming” of cooler air into the engine, with more velocity and volume than airflow that passes through a typical airbox and paper filter, is aided by cold-air-induction systems such as those from Banks, Airaid, and S&B Filters. Of course, engine size also has an influence on the amount of performance gained by the upgrade. When stock intake-air components are replaced with a decent cold-air setup, fuel efficiency improves for both petrol engines.
An aftermarket air intake filter is required to acquire the F150 torque and horsepower improvements. Air intakes, like all other forms of performance modifications on your F150, improve MPGs and reduce engine noise by providing a cleaner, freer supply of oxygen than your vehicle may have had in the previous thousand miles. It’s one of the simplest F150 performance upgrades and is more concerned with optimizing than modifying what’s already there.
Cotton-gauze filter mediums are more environmentally friendly since they may be reused indefinitely.
The installation time is straightforward: it will take you no more than 30 minutes.
Designed for a perfect fit in your F150’s engine, this kit is built specifically for your vehicle.
AEM isn't as well-known as K&N, but that doesn't mean their systems aren't top quality. AEM parts are frequently seen on high-performance vehicles, so they must be doing something right! This one includes a huge washable filter for maximum air flow. Depending on how you drive, this system can last up to 100,000 miles. Overall, it's a really simple intake system to install; it simply replaces your factory intake. Its appearance provides lots of space in your engine bay, making servicing and repairs much easier.
Technical Specifications:
Increased from 18.5 to 18.8 MPG based on 2000 mile test.
aFe Magnum Force Stage 2 Si Pro 5R intake systems are CAD-designed and sealed for maximum power. These systems are fully enclosed in a heat-shielding molded plastic housing that features an auxiliary inlet duct for better airflow, plus an attractive brushed aluminum cover. Also featured is aFe's heat-insulating molded plastic tube that replaces your stock intake tract. These specially designed tubes flow more air with improved volumetric efficiency for maximum performance. Keeping the air clean are the deep open pleats of their Pro 5R washable and reusable oiled filters constructed of high-quality materials. These systems install easily without drilling or cutting. Bolt on a better way to feed your engine clean air with aFe Magnum Force Stage 2 Si Pro 5R intake systems.
Even if you aren't technically inclined, the installation manual supplied is quite simple to follow. It looks great in the engine bay and provides a little more elbow space. Some people would rather use these than K&N intakes. This air intake system is washable and recyclable, and it should last approximately 100,000 miles. Its handmade with high-quality components, which may slightly improve gas mileage. It has a Synthaflow air filter that provides maximum airflow and filtration. Airaid's customer service has been excellent in my experience, and they provide a lifetime warranty on their products. Although this may be #5 on the list, don't let it stop you. Inquire around and go over the Amazon reviews; you'll see right away that it's a fantastic choice!
Technical Specifications:
AIRAID "No-Hassle" Lifetime Warranty
Hand-built using the finest materials available today
K&N is the brand that springs to mind when you think of cold air intakes. For all the correct reasons, K&N is undoubtedly one of the most well-known names in the market for cold air intakes. It's likely no surprise that this company topped the list. K& N has the broadest range of intakes on the market, ranging from systems designed simply to boost noise to systems with 25 horsepower increases! This procedure enables you to add up to 12 more horses. It may not seem like a lot, but it feels as though you've gained a lot more horsepower. This is due to the increased throttle response of this system. With this system, air reaches your engine faster, resulting in greater power right away. The intake's pleasant growl sounds similar to having a small exhaust installed. This diesel intake system is built to last up to 100,000 miles before requiring servicing.
Add Headers or Downpipes to Get Ford F150 5.4 More HP
Downpipes and headers are the place to get bolt-on modifications for a Ford F150 Ecoboost that boost torque. Upgrades to your F150 exhaust header and downpipe configuration can increase power you can feel before you depress the pedal. Our F150 5.0 headers enhance horsepower while also reducing exhaust noise. Downpipes for turbocharged Ecoboost engines provide unrivaled dependability as well as a smoother sound. Your horsepower and torque levels will never be higher than they are right now.
The groove in the center of each Gasket Seal prevents air from escaping. As a result, protruding parts vibrate against one another, causing noise and inhibiting flow.
Downpipes eliminate the restriction between the turbo and the exhaust.
Installing a ceiling mount television is simple for do-it-yourselfers.
Gibson headers are performance-tuned and engine-matched to unleash your vehicle's full potential. These headers are well-suited for lowered or raised pickups and tow vehicles—because the performance gains are engineered to come in at low and midrange rpm highway speeds. They feature mandrel-bent primary tubing for increased flow, and they bolt on quickly and easily. Installing Gibson headers will give you increased horsepower and response and a cooler-running engine. Every Gibson Performance Header is Dyno-tuned and engineered to deliver more usable horsepower and torque at low and mid-range RPM highway speeds. Improves engine's ability to breathe and cooler operating engine temperature. Designed as a direct replacement for the factory manifolds, using the stock crossover pipe. They are well suited for lowered and raised vehicles, street and off-road. 50 State Street legal. Meets EPA and CARB requirements. Will not affect the factory warranty. No welding required. Uses OEM style connections. 3/8" Heavy Duty Laser Cut Port Flanges- No Warping or Leaking. Premium Gaskets and Hardware included. Backed by a Lifetime Limited Warranty.
Technical Specifications:
for Ford 5.4
Heavy-duty 409L stainless steel tubing. Fits models with EGR.
JBA Cat4ward Headers allow your engine to breathe freely and unleash its full performance potential. The exhaust is the weak link in engine performance. You may get a boost of up to 10-25 horsepower from JBA Headers. The steel tube is mandrel-bent with extra-large exhaust openings and a leak-free, laser-cut 3/8" thick flange for fast exhaust flow. You also get JBA's Firecone merge collector (dependent on model), which swiftly ejects spent gases from your tailpipe. Exhaust headers from JBA allow your engine to breathe easier, allowing for more power, torque, and throttle response. For a simple and quick installation that does not void your manufacturer's warranty, all mounting hardware is supplied. Choose from four different paint job options. Of course, your JBA Headers come with a one-year warranty.
Technical Specifications:
for Ford F-150 5.4L
Fits 3-valve engines only. Headers come with 4 long collector bolts, 3 short header bolts, nuts, washers, and lock washers
Of course, the first thing that comes to mind when I mention aftermarket exhaust systems is: “Sound.” Yes, at idle or racing at wide open throttle, replacement pipes and mufflers are what make the sounds we hear.
There are, however, two more benefits to swapping out the factory exhaust system with mandrel-bent three- and four-inch aluminum or stainless steel pipes and free-flowing mufflers. The second benefit is increased gas motor performance. Diesels get a small boost in torque. MBRP, Gibson Performance Exhaust, and Magnaflow are some of the manufacturers who develop exhaust systems for late-model pickup trucks.
You can pair this MBRP with a 2015 – up Ford F150. The XP Series is the name of this model. It also features a well-protected design and a bent support bracket behind the rear tailpipe, in addition to being well-protected. You receive exhaust with an aligned choice that is full of sixteen gauge T409 construction and appears normal. In addition, the Pre-Axle outlet makes it seem attractive. What is the sound quality like? ‘MBRP S5262AL' was designed to handle strange noises until you get inside. People grow accustomed to the exhaust's mellown out over time, and it can be quite thrilling. During installation, you may need to do some adjusting. Whatever the case, you'll be satisfied with the result. The MBRP Installer Series exhaust systems give you the best of both worlds in one complete package. They provide great sound control—as well as improvements in torque and horsepower. These systems are constructed from heavy-duty, 16-gauge steel with an aluminized coating and an extra-thick layer of aluminum silica on the seams, an area often left exposed to rust. The units are available in hundreds of configurations to suit your vehicle's exhaust needs.
Flowmaster FlowFX mufflers feature mandrel-bent bright stainless steel tubing, mated to specially designed straight-through for great sound and maximum performance. FlowFX 409 stainless steel mufflers deliver a moderate to aggressive interior and exterior sound level that will appeal to anyone looking for a deep, powerful exhaust note.
Technical Specifications:
The sound of more victory laps than any other brand
An intoxicating concert of steel, gears and combustion that echoes from the speedways
This is a pleasant system for the Ford F-150 4.6L/5.0L/5.4L V8 Engine with Flowmaster 817522 on it. You'll be given a thorough instructions manual, which will come as no surprise to you. So, why is the ‘Flowmaster 817522' an excellent exhaust for the F-150? This is a good example of a Flowmaster sound exterior exhaust tone that offers modest results. The stainless steel exhaust component is manufactured with Mandrel bent 16 gauge bridging gap, and it has been stainless steel braided for added strength. However, because the weld keep hangers and fasteners from twisting around due to the weld, you may need a bit of welding on each connection.
Finally, we recommend upgrading the ECM programmer/monitor for new trucks in order to improve performance. Devices such as Edge Products’ Insight CTS2, SCT’s X4, Bully Dog GT Platinum, and Banks Derringer may boost horsepower and torque by simply being plugged into a vehicle’s diagnostic interface. For trucks that tow and rigs that are used for long-distance transportation, a programmer (also known as “tuner”) allows customers to modify ECM calibrations to improve performance and fuel efficiency by altering fueling, timing, and gear shifting settings for optimum operation.
We know how much Ford enthusiasts love to get their hands dirty, but an all-in-one tuner is a fantastic way to fine-tune areas you can’t reach with a wrench – particularly your engine’s computer. These technological tools may provide your horsepower and torque as much as triple-digit increases simply by pushing a button or touching a screen. What’s better? You may apply the preprogrammed F150 horsepower upgrades or create your own custom settings.
The radio has a full-color display with day/night driving modes (varies from tuner to tuner).
Aligns and recalibrates your speed limiter, tire size, rev limit, and DTC reader as needed.
There are various pre-programmed settings for the average driver.
The Edge Evolution is designed from the ground up to compliment your truck. Aside from substantial power and torque gains, the Edge Evolution provides a wealth of information about your truck's performance. Evolution is designed to constantly provide this information by fitting in to your vehicle with a custom-designed mold that makes the Edge Evolution look like it came with your truck. Edge Evolution programmers provide three power levels designed to extract the most performance from the fuel you are using. The levels are Transmission Only, Tow, and High Performance. Sleek design that stays with the vehicle as a state-of-the-art gauge display. Perform 0-60 quarter-mile, eighth-mile, and 60 ft. performance tests and reaction times as well as display mph, time, and distance. Hook them up to your PC and you can even view estimated flywheel horsepower and quarter-mile times.
DiabloSport inTune i2 computer programmers will boost your car or truck's power without even popping the hood! If you've ever wished you could buy a performance upgrade that makes your throttle more responsive, optimizes your transmission shift patterns, or even adds some bottom-end horsepower, you're in luck--the i2 computer programmers are loaded with cutting-edge performance programs that optimize performance. Within minutes, you could add 15+ hp and 20+ torque with no tools required! No one wants to wait around when it's time to go fast, so DiabloSport engineered them with some serious hardware horsepower, too! Running the latest generation of Sitara ARM processors and 2GB of ram, the i2 computer programmers' interface runs at screaming speeds. Their display is a full-color 2.8 in. resistive-touch screen, perfect for use even with grease-covered hands. Sometimes, the latest vehicle technology can be tricky--heck, sometimes there are so many buttons, knobs, and levers in our vehicles that we don't even know what they do! With that in mind, DiabloSport developed a new mode on the i2 called "Easy Tune," which takes the guesswork out of installing your performance tune. Easy Tune prompts the user to select the type of gas they're running, asks if they want to remove their speed limiter or change tire size, and installs the tune in minutes. No more choosing from a long list of options! Update your DiabloSport inTune i2 computer programmer's software on virtually any computer--Mac, Windows, Linux, or you can even update it via Wi-Fi! Software update speeds have been boosted from the original inTune as well--the average update time for an i2 is about 5 minutes.
Part of the Edge Evolution CS2 line of programmers, the Edge 85350 for gasoline-powered vehicles offers advanced features to help you get the most from your rig and look good doing it. This super-sleek, in-cab programmer will allow you to retune your ride with the help of multiple power levels created by a team of experienced engineers. Install your Edge CS2 tuner in minutes without ever opening the hood—simply mount it in your cab to take advantage of continuous, real-time engine data monitoring. Features include a full-color, high-resolution screen that is easy to view and to use, thanks to intuitive button controls.
The GT Platinum Gas is four products in one; a vehicle engine tuner, monitor, gauge and diagnostic device all in a single unit. The GT dramatically improves the utility of your vehicle by increasing horsepower, improving fuel economy and providing a comprehensive set of monitoring features and diagnostic functions. This product is incomparable to other tuning products because it has the largest feature set and the widest range of vehicle applications from a single product part number. Bully Dog's dyno proven tune files recalibrate the computer onboard your truck to provide an increase in horsepower and torque, all while optimizing your fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications:
Engine Tuner
Wide make & model fit
Utiliize multiple preloads and up to 10 custom tune files to match your vehicle and performance needs
AEM Electronics Series 2 Plug & Play Engine Management Systems (EMS) will forever change the way you look at and perform fuel injection tuning! These user-programmable units plug directly into your vehicle's factory ECU harness and require no additional wiring or hardware. (Some adapting hardware may be required for non-factory forced induction vehicles.) Windows-based software (2000, NT, 98, 95, and ME) makes the task of copying, viewing, and manipulating data as simple as clicking the mouse. User-defined templates are easily configurable and enable tuners to establish "quick keys" to any pertinent information during the tuning process. The infinitely adjustable software of these systems allows tuners to program virtually any combination of engine control, power adders, and auxiliary devices. They accurately deliver the proper amounts of fuel and correct ignition timing to any boost level or operating condition.
Technical Specifications:
2000, XP, NT, 98, 95, ME
Legal in California only for racing vehicles which may never be used upon a highway
How to Get More Roar with a Ford F150 5.4 Cat Back Exhaust
Despite its large size, the Ford F-150 has a decent noise level. The issue with that is loud trucks are way more fun! The sound and ponies return when you upgrade the standard exhaust system of the Ford F-150 to a high-performance cat-back system.
It’s only natural that your Ford F150 has the appearance and reputation of a rough-riding legend, and it’s only fitting that it has the sound to match. With a new cat back exhaust, you may acquire large horsepower improvements and huge torque enhancements. Swap out your failing pipes for one of our thundering alternatives, get back on track with a fresh start.
Exhaust flow and back-pressure are both improved by mandrel-bend tubing.
To save time spent at the pump, this vehicle is highly fuel efficient.
The kit includes all of the components and directions for quick installation.
Borla realizes that every driver has their own preference for the volume and character of their exhaust sound. So, if you're not happy with your factory exhaust's sound and performance, upgrade to Borla Touring cat-back exhaust systems. Made from the finest austenitic stainless steel for durability, these Touring cat-backs (and rear axle-backs) deliver more of everything! They offer increased exhaust velocity for added power and driving excitement, along with that distinctive Borla Sound of Power that's respected by motoring enthusiasts everywhere. More than a hundred configurations are available—find the model designed for your vehicle.
Technical Specifications:
Jun 2004-2008 Ford F-150 4.6/ 5.4L V8 Automatic/ Manual Transmission 2 & 4 Wheel Drive 2 Door Extended Cab Short Bed (66")/ Crew Cab Short Bed (66").
It's Mulisha Performance time to go completely insane, isn't it? Now, the clean-sounding ‘Gibson 60-0034' has a Stainless Metal build and baffled & chambered design. You're probably not familiar with such an action coming from this Gibson type. It's one of the best motorsports exhaust in the world, according to some critics. In addition to excellent sound quality, Gibson ensures enhanced power, fuel efficiency, and Craftsmanship in their exhausts. The exhausts on a guitar are built for performance. The price is fair when compared to the performance you may expect! First and foremost, you'll miss out on some of the sound spectrum, but it grows in popularity. This exhaust may help you regain your lost power. You've demonstrated to improve in excess of predicted performance by including horsepower, acceleration, and fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications:
6in. Black Ceramic Round Rolled Edge Slash- Cut Tip
MBRP Black Series exhaust systems maximize exhaust flow and minimize exhaust temperatures—so your truck will use less gas, last longer, and perform better. The systems are built from aluminized steel, with a durable high-heat black powdercoat finish. Fully mandrel-bent tubing, with minimal bend degree angles, allows the exhaust to exit quickly; and the seams are fully sealed to resist rust. Black Series systems are available for gas truck/SUV, diesel, and muscle car applications. Order the model designed for your specific vehicle—and add some style and performance!
Technical Specifications:
Bolt-on Installation
3-year workmanship warranty
Wrapped perforated core
Direct-fit to the OEM hangers; clamps and accessories included
Many people start their modifications with a Ford F150 throttle body upgrade. Replace the stock one with a bigger one to breathe new life into your panting exhaust system. It’ll add power and breath to your gasping exhaust system. This precision-fit, CNC-machined aluminum component draws in extra electricity to help your Ford F150 travel further by power-pumping oxygen. It’s not only about horsepower increases; it’s also designed to give quicker throttle response.
Fully-equipped with bearings, throttle shafts, and die-stamped connections for dependability.
Available in a number of sizes to fit your F150 4.6, 5.0, or 5.4 specifications.
It’s a straightforward, bolt-on kit that takes only minutes to install.
BBK Power-Plus Series throttle bodies have you covered when it comes to increased airflow for your late model vehicle. These Power-Plus units are cast from high-quality 356 aluminum alloy and are machined on state-of-the-art CNC centers to ensure a perfect fit on your car or truck. Their features include double-sealed bearings, O-ringed throttle shafts, and precision die-stamped linkages—so you know you're getting the best quality throttle bodies at the best value possible.
Designed to deliver more horsepower and torque, aFe Silver Bullet throttle body spacers make an excellent addition to your vehicle. They're precision-machined from T-6061 billet aluminum to exacting specifications to provide optimal performance. The combination serrated/helix design creates turbulence so that the air/fuel charge is thoroughly mixed for a complete burn. Their specially-designed serrated edge will reduce the whistling sound normally associated with throttle body spacers. The aFe Silver Bullet throttle body spacers increase the volume between the throttle and cylinder, improving volumetric efficiency.
From the seat-of-the-pants feel, the dyno confirmed our suspicions. With a peak horsepower increase from 241 to 267 at 5,000 rpm, we observed an overall improvement of about 20 hp across the test range. That’s power you can feel when driving around town or speeding down the dunes. It’s not bad for an afternoon’s work putting on upgrades.
[…] journey. For those interested in optimizing their Ford vehicles post-purchase, our article on Ford F150 5.4 Performance Upgrades offers insightful […]
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