I am trying to understand the "upgrade" process...

[CaliEx]

I have a 2001 Excursion Limited 4x4 PSD. When I first got the Ex it was a dog and had a hard time getting out of it's own way unless I really put my foot in it. I got hold of a hypertech programmer and installed the program... wow, instant results that impressed me even though it wasn't much compared to what you guys are doing with your trucks! I have not located anything that tells me what my computer program code is, it isn't on the box! Are all 2001's coded the same? (Excursions, F250, F350, etc.) If so, what is the code? Someone has given me a Bully Dog flip chip that he had in his 2001 F250 PSD... I am thinking that this chip will go in my Ex as it is without the need for a re-burn. (Would that be correct?) I am looking at changing to a 4" exhaust, an AFE stage one intake and a wicked wheel... possibly an Aeroturbine along with the new exhaust system (4040 or 4040L) wanting to keep it "quiet"! I see everyone saying that gauges are a must... my question is: If all the planned upgrades supposedly make drops in EGT, why would I need gauges at all? Wouldn't it be running cooler than with the stock parts? I realize that gauges look pretty cool! BTW... the only thing that I ever tow is an 18' bass boat, weighing approximately 3500-4000lbs. (including the trailer weight) Any input would be greatly appreciated!

[Tailgate]

Here's the problem...you can't know for sure that your EGT is dropping unless you have gauges. Theoretically, most mods like air intake and larger exhaust will drop the EGTs...but there is no way to know what the chip is actually doing to your truck. It's not a science, it's an art. Every truck is slightly different. Just look at all of the MPG posts over the years and the numbers vary wildy on similar if not identical vehicles.

You're talking about doing $1,000 worth of mods...but no way to measure the benefit or harm they are doing other than "seat of the pants" and "tickling the ear." My suggestion would be to forget the Aeroturbine and that will easily pay for the gauges. You can sell your Hypertech too.

Don't forget one of the most important mods FIRST...get a high pressure crossover hose kit put on (about $40).

[CHPMustang]

Like Tail states gauges for sure especially when the fuel/electronics are being modified.

Haven't see many people recommend the HPX lately but I know first hand it gave positive results right from the first start up after installed.

When I started on modding the wife's X I went with the intake,exhaust then HPX.

[CaliEx]

So... what exactly is a HPX mod? What does it do? Is it a kit, or do I just pick up parts to do it myself? I have not heard of this mod until now! So if I were to do this HPX mod, put in an intake (AFE Stage 1), Wicked Wheel upgrade, 4" exhaust, Gauges, my Bully Dog flip chip and maybe the TAG 2 setup (haven't decided on the TAG yet), then I should be good to go with a somewhat modest boost in performance and economy! (I hope)
When I say "Modest", I am comparing what I want to do with what all these other guys are running!!!
Thanks for the inputs... much appreciated!!!

[CHPMustang]

What the high pressure crossover hose does is equalizes oil pressure in both fuel rails so all 8 injectors get the same amount of pressure.

To put it in a nutshell you'll go from 7 cylinders firing to 8 [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smokin.gif[/img]

Smoothens out the idles and acceleration is much better [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

Basic install,I opted for the "under the turbo" version so it's just a straight jump across from head to head.Just a couple wrenches and some clean shop towels.

BILL

[CaliEx]

Thanks Bill, this sounds like a good and easy mod! What do I need to get to do this? Where do I get what I need to do it?
Thanks!
Brian

[Jeff27]

Ditto...I think I asked about this mod a while back, but I'm ready to move on it now!!

[CHPMustang]

I purchased my HPX from Tymar Performance which I've been 100% satisfied with but Dieselsite has an almost identical kit which I'd purchase as well. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]