[Bird Dog]

Hello, I'm a proverbial FNG . I'm new to diesel rigs, I just bought a 2002 Ford Excursion with a 7.3 in it, that's a bone stock one owner 192K mile truck. Now the fun begins. And I need advice, ideas, parts etc. I picked Bird Dog for my handle, as Im an aircraft mechanic by trade, and an old dog out to learn new tricks. I'm developing a love affair with this rig, and want to improve it. I want to modify it for more fuel economy and more power without hurting the trans, if this is possible. I've started reading forums and such, and get lost trying to absorb the wealth of knowledge that's out there.

So far it seems making it breathe better and exhaust better are the best starting points. I've read that a factory severe duty air intake system and a four inch turbo back exhaust system is a good way to go. My rig will be hauling family more than trailers most the time, so MPG, less noise, and a strong but not harsh suspension would be helpful. I cant go the lifted route, or at least not much, due to spine damage, hard to step up for me.

Ive read that flashing my confuser is better than chipping it. Im unsure what I can gain either way.

SO far Ive ordered new shocks., they get here Friday.
I need to change my front sway bar links and my front bump stops (one is missing on the front, and the rears are mismatched). Should I stay with the originals (mine is an early 2002 production) or go with the newer 2003 tyoe
What do you recommend for a rear sway bar system, my 2002 wasn't born with one. but body roll/lean is a current problem.

Any ideas suggestions etc. would be appreciated

 

[Texkenusmc]

My truck is bone stock other than a tuner and hutch and harpoon mod. I can say that a tuner or chip will make you love your truck even more. You will be able to tell a major difference.

 

[crashz]

Welcome Bird Dog!

As a fairly new member here, I can say there is a lot of reading to do. The experts here have a lot of really good info on maintaining, repairing and improving these trucks.

Based upon the reading, I've bought a bunch of parts and pieces for repair and performance for my F450, but have not gotten a chance to install most of them. The one item that I have installed which was not exactly recommended is an old Superchips tuner. In tow safe mode, I can't really see a difference.

Same with the oil crossover. I may have reduced the idle noise a little, but with leaking exhaust doughnuts, its hard to tell.

I will be installing the gauges, down pipes, and seal kits soon. Probably going to clean out the tank filters and do a low buck Hutch mod too. Too much to do right now.

 

[RDG]

Your best bet for info is in the 1999-2007 Ford Super Duties section or the Excursion section. Scroll down on the forum page and you will find what you need.