Tuning with high miles

jlstang351 · #1 Mon, March 15th, 2010, 08:47 AM

So I just bought a 01 4x4 lariat with 209k miles. The truck doesnt skip a beat and feels more like 50k miles. Will I be ok putting a custom tune on it? I dont need anything real aggressive just wont something to make it a good daily driver on a 87 octane tune. Coming from a tunned 06 F150 I dont think its possible for me to drive a stock fiddy ever again!

soutthpaw · #2 Mon, March 15th, 2010, 10:33 AM

I would do a compression check on the engine and make sure you are within specs on all cylinders... If all is good and the rest of the vehicle is mechanically sound, you should have no problem running tunes on it

cody994x4 · #3 Mon, March 15th, 2010, 08:40 PM

how is a compression check done? is this something a guy can do at home or no? concerned only because im tuning with 130k on my 99

***88Racing*** · #4 Tue, March 16th, 2010, 12:18 AM

Personally as long as the truck is in sound mechanical shape and routine maintenance has been performed then a tuner won't be an issue.
To do a compression test at home you need to go out and buy a tester gauge.
Remove spark(s) plug and put adapter in the hole and crank the motor.
Another GOOD investment is a Haines or Chilton repair/service book what can be purchased/ordered at an auto parts store or online.

Peace!

***907DAVE*** · #5 Tue, March 16th, 2010, 05:09 AM

Might be cheaper to take it to a dealer, or someone who has an IDS to do a Relative Compression Test. They can preform this test without even opening the hood, and it is very accurate.

I am with 88 on this, if the vehicle has been well maintained I would not be the least bit worried about adding custom tunes.

Just a thought.

jlstang351 · #6 Tue, March 16th, 2010, 08:49 AM

Im afraid to have a compression check done

but seriously you would never know it had the high miles driving it. It was extremely well taken care of. i dont plan on beating up on it just want it to be a little more responsive and shift a tad firmer like my previous 06 did

***88Racing*** · #7 Tue, March 16th, 2010, 10:16 AM

I wouldn't worry about it.
If you want the improved custom tune response and shifts then get them.

cody994x4 · #8 Tue, March 16th, 2010, 01:17 PM

yeah idk if that is really worth the trouble

if it aint broke, dont try to fix it.