Factory tunes aren’t always designed to maximize your truck’s horsepower. That’s why tuning the engine computer of an F-150 is so popular among our customers and something we are so thrilled to bring your way.
Tuning your truck’s turbocharger boost pressure and making other minor adjustments gives you around 100 more horsepower than what you started with — which is an amazing way to turn an average drive into an extraordinary one. However, as with any tuning process, the downside is that maintenance items that were once acceptable (or even marginal) at the original OEM boost pressures can be exposed and become problematic after tuning.
Fortunately, we have answers for you. At Xodus, we focus on creating cohesive, innovative products that work seamlessly together, and we’re here to help you take the right approach to troubleshooting. Let’s talk more about how to address problems that come up after tuning or, with pre-tuning maintenance, address issues before they occur.
3.5 Ecoboost Maintenance Tips
Addressing these areas in advance will make your tuning experience hassle free and keep your truck healthy.
Fluids
Before you tune your vehicle using the 3.5 Ecoboost tuner, we suggest checking its fluid levels. Ensure your engine oil, transmission fluid, and differential fluids are serviced. Then, keep up with that service on a regular basis according to the Ford-recommended service schedule for your vehicle and its mileage.
Air Filters
Another top tip is to swap out dirty air filters before you use the F150 Ecoboost tuner. When you have dirty air filters, your vehicle’s turbochargers have to work harder to obtain the boost the engine computer requests. Dirty filters can lead to disappointing power gains, turbocharger under-boost codes, and, in a worst-case scenario, turbocharger failure.
What’s the fix? Install a fresh filter in the OEM airbox (this is the cheapest trick). If you have more cash to spend, install a quality cold air intake kit instead.
Spark Plugs
How old are your spark plugs? If they’re older and are getting worn down, creating a spark strong enough to light the fuel and air mixture for the increased boost pressure could be tough.
As spark plugs wear out, the gap between the electrode and strap increases. With higher boost pressure, the ignition coils may not be able to produce enough of a spark to bridge the gap, which can lead to misfires when you try to start your vehicle and jerking when you accelerate.
So, what’s the fix? Our recommendation is to install properly gapped spark plugs, such as Denso brand part number 5345—Iridium, and stick to a 3.5 Ecoboost maintenance schedule of every 20,000 miles.
Intercooler
Another issue you may encounter after using the Ford Ecoboost tuner is trouble with your intercooler. More heat is produced when you boost your turbochargers and have higher boost pressure. That heat is a result of higher air compression and lower turbocharger efficiency.
But that heat has to go somewhere. That’s why we suggest performing maintenance to check older intercoolers for damage (such as cracks or damage from dirt or rocks). It’s also a good idea to relocate your license plate to ensure proper airflow to your OEM intercooler. If you notice bent fins, the intercooler needs to be repaired or replaced. If you replace it, we suggest a larger, high-quality, high-performing intercooler designed to fight heat soak.