fyreduck1921,
Here are some of my thoughts on bolt-ons and other mods for this generation Bronco with the Speed Density ECU:
Air Intake and Fuel Delivery:
1. K&N Air Filter for stock box--have had this for years and like it; may keep it.
2. Cold Air Intake--thought I was definitely going to do this, but not sure now; most of these systems do not have ducting for fresh air from the grill and do not use the stock intake ducts; therefore, they may get a little higher volume of air, but it is hot air from the engine compartment; Seabronc said it's not worth it and I think I agree.
3. Higher flow injectors/adjustable fuel pressure regulator--I've decided because of the inability to change the computer, it is not worth messing with these things; I plan on getting my stock injectors rebuilt.
4 Throttle Body--not sure if any mods will make any difference, but doubt I will do anything with this; don't want CELs.
5. Intake plenum--thought about getting the Edelbrock Performer intake plenum, but it looks more stupid than stock, and I kinda doubt it will give enough bang for the buck.
Heads: I don't think any mods are worth doing because of the computer; I'm getting the stock heads that come with the rebuilt engine.
Camshaft: I've read that you can do a very mild changed cam, but I am not sure if this is really worth it; I'm still trying to find someone with enough knowledge to help me decide this issue; I think I'll be fine with stock; we'll see.
Block/Crankshaft/Piston/etc.--all staying stock.
Exhaust:
1. A few years ago I put on a high-flow cat, 3" single pipe, and Magnaflow muffler, and I love it; I will keep all of this, though I might remove the cat if it will not mess with the ECU/Smog/cause CELs.
2. Already ordered JBA ceramic coated shorty headers; I think my exhaust mods will probably give me more gain than just about anything else (besides finally getting the right gearing in my difs).
Ignition:
1. Already got MSD Distributor cap, rotor, and wires, and I'll keep these.
2. Will probably do MSD coil.
3. Considering new MSD Distributor and 6AL Ignition box, but not sure if these will be worth it.
Oil system:
1. Getting Milodon oil pan, Milodon oil pickup, and Melling oil pump--I have often in the past had oil pickup problems when offroading, and would have my valves clattering badly; would have to stop, turn off engine, and let things settle, then keep going; I am doing these mods to prevent that problem; also, the increased capacity oil pan will keep the oil and engine temps a little lower.
2. Plan on using synthetic oil in the new engine.
Cooling:
1. Getting a Flowcooler water pump.
2. Staying with stock radiator and fan setup; I don't think the horsepower gains from electric fans are worth it, plus I don't want to rely on electronics to keep my engine cool; I don't think there is any need for a "better" aftermarket radiator, as the stock is plenty effective.
Is that enough? If anyone has any thoughts about what I've listed, or can answer any of my unresolved issues/questions, let me know.
Thanks,
Husmann