Upgrade ignition?

elboberino · April 10, 2003

I'm sure it's been asked before but hey, I'm a lazy college student and searching is not as appealing to me as asking is.

I was wondering if there is an aftermarket ignition system like the MSD system for the 01 5.3s. I know I can change the wires and the spark plugs but what other systems exist that are affordable for a college student like myself. Let me know! Thanks in advance!

GnatGoSplat · April 10, 2003

Even if there were, you wouldn't gain anything.

The ignition systems on these trucks is quite good already. The spark is already very strong, look at how short the plug wires are (very little loss) and also each plug gets its own dedicated coil.

MI 99XPL · April 18, 2003

I know you don't want to do it, but search for "Direct Hits". It's about the only thing I've found people trying that they have had improvements with. Well, most of them had improvements with it.

MarkD · April 18, 2003

Even if there were, you wouldn't gain anything.
The ignition systems on these trucks is quite good already. The spark is already very strong, look at how short the plug wires are (very little loss) and also each plug gets its own dedicated coil.

I agree.

tbyrne · April 18, 2003

I use the Direct Hits on two 8.1 trucks and have had good results with each. Better throttle response and a noticeable improvement in gas mileage were two of the benefits.

Tom

JimG · April 18, 2003

I use the Direct Hits on two 8.1 trucks and have had good results with each. Better throttle response and a noticeable improvement in gas mileage were two of the benefits.

Tom, how much improvement in gas mileage?? I got my '03 Sierra ... and when I start work (almost graduated college student) I'll have a 1 hour commute each way. Looking for ways to up the mpg on the truck so I don't have to fill up as often. Not going to mod everything in the engine ... (ok I might, but for lots of other reasons) so I'm looking at ideas, and if this works that well then I'll try it.