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The Ford F150 has built a strong reputation for its powerful engine offerings. Still, many owners desire more than their stock pickups can offer, and that’s ok because there are loads of modifications that can increase engine performance.
But it’s not just about raw power; if you really want to squeeze the most out of your pickup, you should also consider its power-to-weight ratio, aerodynamic drag, and overall engine efficiency.
Well, good news, this guide details nine mods that increase Ford F150 horsepower, torque, and all-around performance.
From simple mods like filling the gas tank with higher-octane fuel; to advanced mods, such as installing a forced-induction system, we’ve got you covered.
Entry Level F-150 Performance Mods
First, we'll review a few entry-level modifications that are affordable (if not free), easy to implement, and can offer noticeable performance improvements.
Install Performance Oil & Air Filters
One of the simplest ways to give your F-150 a small performance boost is by swapping out the stock oil and air filters for high-performance variants.
Performance air filters, like those from K&N, allow for better airflow to the engine, ensuring it breathes more efficiently. Expect to squeeze in an extra 2-5 horsepower by upgrading your air filter.
As for performance oil filters, these help keep your oil clean, reducing wear and tear and maintaining engine health. While the horsepower gain might not be direct, the engine runs smoother and more efficiently, which can indirectly contribute to better performance.
Perform a Tune-Up
A regular tune-up, which typically involves changing the spark plugs, checking the ignition system, and ensuring the fuel system works optimally, can improve horsepower by as much as 10%-15%.
What's more, you may also enjoy F150 torque gains of around 20-30 lb.-ft., depending on the truck's age, condition, and configuration. Additionally, a tune-up can quicken throttle response, making your pickup feel more responsive and agile.
Use Higher-Octane Fuel
Another really easy way to make the most of your F150 engine is to opt for a higher-octane fuel, so instead of Regular (87 octane), use Mid-grade (89 octane) or Premium (93 octane), depending on your budget.
The higher the octane rating, the better its resistance to knocking or pinging during combustion. This ensures a more efficient burn in the engine's combustion chamber, especially in those with forced induction (turbo/supercharged), leading to smoother operation.
For reference, a 2019 test by Car and Driver shows a twin-turbocharged V6 F150 jumped from 360 to 380 horsepower by switching from Regular to Premium. This improved acceleration, with the truck hitting 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds vs. 5.9, and also slightly boosted fuel economy from 17.0 to 17.6 mpg.
Remove Excess Weight
While it won't directly increase F150 horsepower and torque, shedding excess weight can improve your truck's performance. Think of it this way: the less your engine has to move, the quicker and more efficiently it can do so.
A vehicle's power-to-weight ratio is key to its acceleration, handling, and efficiency. You can improve this ratio by simply decluttering your truck, like removing unused tools and equipment or even opting for lightweight components.
In general, for every 100 pounds removed, you may see a roughly 1% improvement in acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Intermediate Mods To Take Your F150 to the Next Level
Next are intermediate mods, which may demand more effort, require professional installation, or come with a higher price tag. Regardless, the trade-off is a noticeable horsepower boost you'll surely enjoy on the road.
Install a Cold-Air Intake
Your F150's engine thrives on air, and the cooler and denser the air, the better the combustion, leading to extra horsepower.
A cold-air intake system, like those from Injen Technology or Mishimoto, replaces your truck's standard airbox with a more direct and efficient route for air to reach the engine. This not only ensures a cooler air supply but also reduces airflow resistance.
Further, cold-air intake kits are usually designed for easy installation, making them a straightforward DIY project for most truck enthusiasts. By installing a cold-air intake, you’ll likely see horsepower gains of around 5-20, depending on the model and configuration of your F-150.
Add a Tonneau Cover
While a tonneau cover might not seem like a performance mod at first, adding one can really improve your F150's aerodynamics.
By covering the cargo box, a tonneau cover lowers the drag of air tumbling into the bed. This means your engine doesn't have to work as hard to maintain highway speeds, leading to better fuel mileage and a slight bump in acceleration.
While the power gains might be minimal, the added fuel economy, security, and aesthetics make it worthwhile. We place tonneau covers as intermediate for their slightly higher cost vs. earlier mods and because they often take 20-30 minutes to set up.
Have Your Engine Tuned
The first mod to require the help of an experienced mechanic, professionally tuning your F-150 can unlock notable performance gains.
By adjusting your truck's electronic control unit, a pro tuner can optimize parameters like fuel-to-air ratios, ignition timing, and turbocharger boost. This calibration can produce substantial horsepower gains of 20-50 or even more, depending on your F150’s specifics.
Beyond the raw power, a professional tune can also improve throttle response, shift points (for automatics), and overall drivability.
Advanced Ford F150 Performance Must-Haves
Advanced mods are best for F150 owners truly committed to pushing the limits of their pickup’s capabilities. These are for serious enthusiasts, often requiring a larger investment and professional installation. However, the added performance can be far more impactful than previous mods.
Add a Turbocharger or Supercharger
Turbochargers and superchargers are some of the most effective add-ons for increasing an F-150's power. Both work by forcing more air into the engine's combustion chamber, allowing for a more powerful explosion.
However, parts can be pricey, and installation can be complex and require specialized tools and expertise. A professional installation is best for most F150 owners, which will help ensure optimal performance and safety.
Regardless of whether you opt for a turbo or supercharger, once correctly installed and tuned, you can expect horsepower gains ranging from 50-150 or even more.
Install a Performance Exhaust System
Upgrading an F150's exhaust system is a fantastic modification for owners seeking some extra power and efficiency. Performance systems typically have wider pipes and high-flow mufflers, facilitating a smoother and faster exit for exhaust gasses, helping the engine breathe better and operate more efficiently.
While many kits are designed for a bolt-on installation, the process can be intricate, especially for those who aren’t mechanically savvy. It might require lifting the truck or specialized tools.
The result is typically an extra 10-15 horsepower, improved throttle response, and a deeper, more refined sound that many truck enthusiasts appreciate.
Trust JEGS for All Your Automotive Needs
Thanks for reading our guide on how to increase F150 horsepower; we hope you enjoyed it. You should now have a clearer understanding of the many options for upping your F150s overall performance.
For all your automotive needs, consider JEGS, a leading supplier of performance auto parts. Still have questions? Contact our team today.
