Performance enhancements best bang for buck?

[mixwhit]

I've got an '03 2WD ext. cab with the 4.0L SOHC. Stock w/ 160k miles. I'd like to improve the performance and am wondering what the best bang for the buck would be. This is my daily driver so I can't take it out of commission for long.

The X-charger supercharger looks like an awesome mod, but I don't think I'll ever convince the spouse that $4.2k is a reasonable amount to spend on that (I could probably convince myself ).

I could swap the engine with a 5.0L v8, but I hate the idea of tossing the perfectly good engine that I have. I also know that means it would be out of commission for a while.

I was wondering whether new exhaust systems really do provide a performance benefit? Well, more specifically, can you feel the difference? I'd welcome a system with more character in the sound, but I wouldn't want it to be obnoxiously loud. Loud like a stock motorcycle cruiser would be good. Any suggestions?

Any other ideas I should consider?

thx

 

[Hahnsb2]

There's really not a whole lot to be gained without spending some decent coin. Smaller engines don't seem to respond to exhaust like bigger engines. I've never noticed a difference in power with exhaust on my 2.9 or 4.0 OHV but I did notice a fair difference on my Dakota (v8). Your SOHC will really rev and makes a lot more power than an OHV so maybe you'd notice it a bit. A good programmer combined with exhaust would probably be your best bet. Depending on your current gear ratio and tire size, deeper gears can help too.

 

[mixwhit]

Thanks. By 'decent coin' how high are we talking? It would be great to spend less than $1k.

BTW, it's got an auto transmission in case that matters.

 

[feellnfroggy]

Why spend 4.2 g's? Go to supersixmotorsports.com and for 2 g's you can have a vortech unit. Also you can go naturally aspirated with their 2500 stage 3 system with upgraded heads, cams, etc. good to about 250 hp with the basics I believe (its been a while since Ive been to the site.

 

[canyoncritter]

give juanco a try and see what he can do, or recommends.He is known as the sohc guru here in san diego. Has all kinds of tricks up his sleve I hear for getiing power out of the sohc.

619.843.9819

or
juan@fiberwerx.com I belive is his email.