\"New\" 1999 Lightning Owner with ?????

Howdy!

Well, I didn't get any responses to my post over in the late model tech forum so I thought I'd try my luck here. I just bought a 1999 Lightning with 19,000 miles...though I was actually in the market for a late model XLT with the extended cab but when I ran across the Lightning for just a couple of grand more I couldn't resist......hope I won't live to regret it. I've seen allot of articles regarding bolt ons (chips, pulleys, headers, and such ) that promise significantly increased power but if I plan on using my Lightning as a daily driver am I better off leaving it stock? What do such bolt ons do to engine/tranny wear? How 'bout resale value (though I don't think I'll ever sell this truck....it is a blast to drive)? Are there any quirks/maintenance issues I should be aware of? Also, can this truck really tow well as claimed (I own a flats boat)? Do I need to add a tranny cooler? Sorry if I sound stupid......I'm a novice mechanic.....but I do love Ford trucks! Thanks for any advice. Ben
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<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: lebensvoll on 2/9/04 5:17am ]</font>

Thanks Chilly!

I think the first thing I'm gonna do is take it down to Ford......have them pull the maintanance records........and ask if there are any factory bulletins I should know about.....probably could write SVT too. I tell you what though, this truck is a blast to drive.....it just flies.......and doesn't handle like a truck at all. I used to drive a Nissan XE Hard Body 5 speed with large rubber and thought that handled well.........but this Ford just sticks in the corners........though I have found it unforgiving in the rain.....but this is a 4700lb full size truck that can tow 5000lbs.......and bone stock I haven't come across much that can touch it yet......I blow away Hemi Dodges and Dakota R/Ts..........though did get beat by a heavily modded Honda......but he had to use nitrous to do it plus I blew the start (just smoked the tires until the transmission was well into third).......plus this truck looks way cooler!

Ben

Hi and welcome Chilly is correct those are the best quick things to do and relieve some restrictions I also have heard that many are getting great results with a chip either the Diablo or Superchips with the programer. The only precaution I have heard about is that if reved too high the rods like to break. I have a plain 5.4 completely stock but then again I need to get the Mustang finished first and I am waiting for the warranty to end Good Luck and have fun Be Safe

Robert
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Hey Robert,

Nice rides! Love the big block fastback! Great to run across someone from the same state as well. Do you know if there are any Lightning/Ford clubs in the area?

Ben

Hey Ben the best I can tell you is that there is a decent car show in plant city on the third sat. of each month I havent made it out there yet but someone else that frequents here has told me about it you may find some clubs more local to you Good Luck
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