So I have a 2003 4.7 QC/SB 4x4, got it a few months ago. I was looking at programmers (Superchips, specifically) and they stated, I believe, 21.9 hp peak gain. Well, that doesn't seem like that much, especially for $300+. I will say, my plans for this truck aren't really about performance, but since I do plan on 35's when my Scorpions wear, I feel like I should add some power.

Here's my plans for engine mods:
FIPK and a new muffler (coming within a couple weeks)
Muffler is a magnaflow knock-off that's pretty open. Haven't heard or
seen it yet, but that's what my shop uses, I guess.
Fastman's 68.5mm throttlebody
Aftermarket Y-pipe

So here's my ultimate question:
I'm not paying $300+ for +/-20 hp. BUT (and this is a big BUT) will the programmers add more than that with better breathing? All without sacrificing too many mpg's. I'm currently getting 10.8, but it's winter time and apparently Dodge decided no 4th gear until the tranny is warm, before winter, I was getting 11.5-12, which is where I want it, if not better.

Can this be done?

I've been reading along for awhile, so I know some of you guys can really help me out and I'm looking forward to your answers.

Thanks in advance,
Kyle

P.S. Sorry I'm kinda scatter-brained today. I'm trying to get all my info out there for the best answer.

 

I do have a superchips tuner, and that extra +/-20hp is quite noticeable. You'd be surprised how an extra true 20 ponies feel. You have to ask yourself this: Besides getting a tuner, how else would you get 20 extra ponies out of your engine with only spending $300? Besides the extra power, there are many more cool things you can do to your truck. Change your shift points, calibrate your speedo due to tire size changes, data logging, scan and clear codes, to name a few. Honestly, I thought that too...before I got one.

 

I believe you gain more then 20 HP out of the 4.7 with a tuner because the 4.7 is very detuned from the factory. But considering for 300 bucks (which you shouldn't pay as you can get used tuners all day long for about 200) the only other things you can get are a CAI (again way overpriced) which will give you about 5-8 HP, an exhaust (about 10 maybe 15 HP depending on the muffler, or if you're lucky a pair of shorty headers (about 20 HP but quite a bit of torque) a tuner is one of the best bangs for the buck next to an E-fan. Also you should have 5 gears, not 4 btw and 10.8 MPG city isn't bad (to me anyways) especially on winter fuel.

 

4, 5, its all the same lol Im a converted Chevy guy, but Ill always be loyal to my small block 350.

I forgot to mention, e-fan and headers are down the road, too, but I would like better breathing and then Ill focus on looks for awhile. If yall think a tuner is worth it, Ill probably get one. Thanks for your opinions.

And 10.8 isnt bad, I just dont wanna drop any. 13 is about ideal.

 

A few extra horses is nice, but you can forget about tranny tuning since its an 03. You can find a used 3865 or 3815 flashpaq for well under $300. Being an 03 your best bet would be the 3815.

 

Okay. I was just looking at the K&N FIPK ($261.19) and the Volante ($258.26). Which one is my best option? Again, I'm looking for both hp/tq and mpg's here. Any thoughts on these or others roughly the same price?

Thanks again.

 

For intakes your best bet is to make one. Look up Ewing's post about his. His design with a K&N filter will cost you about 50 bucks and you'll get the same gains as either of the 300 dollar ones