6.0 Excursion upgrade path advice?

[bsclayton]

Just got my first 05 Excursion with the 6.0, and I'd like to do some solid performance upgrades, but I'm not sure what path to take. Intake first, then programmer, then exhaust? I am not looking for a ridiculous race truck - I just need it to be a reliable daily driver, but for those few times that i want it to launch off the line, or accellerate into the traffic flow or pass, I'd like to have some serious kick available. I don't want to spend excessive $$$ - $1k to $3k would be the limit, but I want the best bang for the buck, without turning the truck into a basket case for maintenance. My driving habits are easy going around town, with the occasional desire to beat a line of traffic, and on the highway I normally average 75-85 mph. I tow a 4000lb boat very rarely. There are so many options - Banks, Edge, Bully, K&N, ram air, dual exhaust, etc... I've been doing research, but I'm really at a loss. Can anyone give me some good advice on how to proceed?

[william_04_X]

do an exhaust system first...4" T/B with 3.5" downpipe..don't spend money on an intake kit..you don't need it unless you're planning on making ALOT of power....next, get a good set of gauges or a data monitor...then get an SCT with custom tunes..with some patience you can easily install this all yourself..this whole set-up will cost less than $1500 and you'll have a great truck...

you mentioned reliability...many here will tell you to keep it stock...if you value your factory warranty, research the cons of aftermarket parts..don't abuse the truck and it shouldn't suffer any more than the average 6.0l..my $.02

Welcome to TDS and have fun with the truck!!

[caryt]

Exhaust if you don't mind it louder inside. Guages if you want. Other than that I would never do any other mods to the engine unless you have $$$$$$$ to cover problems that will come up with these engines( modded or not) Ford likes to blame their problems on any modifcation you make and will void your warrentee.

The excursion benifits more than any other SD from suspension mods. V and B modded springs a rear SD 30mm sway bar and Bilsteins are the best mods you can do!

If you need help with suspension mods PM me.

Cary