crazy4oldcars

OK. Real World. What are the advantages of adding HP to my truck for towing? Not it looks good, it sounds good, I got xxx horses.
The bottom line for towing is fuel economy during the pull.
Yes, I expect to take a hit on gas mileage, but what can I do mitigate that somewhat?
Inquiring minds want to know.

Kirk

SkiSmuggs

If you can lower the power band (more power at lower RPM), you have the potential of saving fuel. I run an 87 or 89 octane tow tune with premium fuel and get a little better fuel mileage than I do stock, and certainly more than with 87 octane. BTW, adding torque is what you want to do, but don't expect miracles.
Folks love to add exhaust systems with dual exhaust or much larger pipes, which typically moves the power band up and defeats the purpose for towing.

116Rob

Most of the benefits on a gasser come in the form of transmission tuning. Yes there are some HP & TQ gains but they can be minimal unless you have a boosted motor like the ecoboost!

crazy4oldcars

Excellent! This Is what I'm looking for.
I'm not expecting to bring 8mpg up to 12, but 9 or 10 would be nice. Every little bit helps.
Any recommendations for a '12 5.0 supercrew (I hate to call Wanda a screw. Just don't seem right.) as far as programmer/programs? I don't want to modify the engine itself (cams, lifters, etc) but I'm not adverse to bolt-ons.

I have advocated torque over horses for a long time. It's a better measure of work done.

Kirk

03Scott

iTrader: (1)

I heard a larger single is better for towing since it still keeps the power lower. OP what motor do you have? On my old truck with the 5.4 I had a computer, intake and 3" single exhaust. It had a ton of towing power but the ecoboost I have now is a whole other level with the way it works.

crazy4oldcars

I have a '12 super crew w/ the 5.0 V8. I'm old school, and I couldn't convince myself to pay $1k more for a 6 cyl.

I have been browsing around looking for info, but everyone is modding for top end power. Top end could help, as long as there are gains through the whole curve. I'm just going to have to keep digging.

Kirk

SkiSmuggs

A tuner is going to be the most bang for the buck. In the 2011+ Engines section, there is a new thread called Diary of a 5.0L Tune ***** that can point you in the right direction. IMO, an intake is going to be a waste of money and my experience indicated a loss of low-end with those. Gibson makes exhausts designed for towing, but I still think a tuner is your best bet.
https://www.f150forum.com/f70/diary-...-*****-218684/
Just remember not to tow with a performance tune, only use a tow tune for that.

crazy4oldcars

Thanks, SkiSmuggs. I appreciate the pointer.

Kirk