Performance ?

HEATHN · September 17, 2009

I have a 2008 chevy suburban w/ the 5.4L V8. I is way under powered for pulling light loads. I was wondering if the basic bolts-ons (filter, exhaust, programmer) are worth the price to performance gains. It feels like the power is there, it just needs to be unchocked.

Stevens03 · September 17, 2009

Well that Ford 5.4 motors your problem... Get a GM 5.3 in there and you'll be fine.

If thats not an option, If it was me, I'd look at a gear swap and custom tune to get you some more low end grunt. What gears do you have now? A cam swap would give you some more power for that heavy SUV. The basic bolt ons will help a little, but I don't think enough to justify the cost. Custom tune at the very least.

HEATHN · September 21, 2009

I have a 3.73 gear rearend. Any suggestions on a custom tune.

Stevens03 · September 21, 2009

Blackbear or Gowheatley

Toadz · October 4, 2009

Try a custom tune with Justin at Black Bear Performance first. If you're still wanting more after that then I would look into cams and exhaust.

hivoltg · October 21, 2009

What would be a good cam to run in my 04 5.3? I'd like to have more low end grunt and more towing power. Would the suggested cam have a differnt sound that the stock one or is it pretty mild?

wlvrn1215 · October 21, 2009

I have a 2008 chevy suburban w/ the 5.4L V8. I is way under powered for pulling light loads. I was wondering if the basic bolts-ons (filter, exhaust, programmer) are worth the price to performance gains. It feels like the power is there, it just needs to be unchocked.

underpowered for light loads??? There must be something wrong with your truck then. I pull 6k without any problems. Even stock 4k wasnt an issue.

birdiemaker · January 30, 2010

Are you switching the transmission to "Tow Mode?" It makes a difference in the shift points. I had to learn to do that when they stopped making manual transmissions. Mine feels weak just driving it around, but it actually tows okay.