I'd like to go FI on my truck but can't see spending $5500.... $4000 or less I could probably swing. I have read most of the FI threads and wouldn't mind any of the options e.g. Radix, ProCharger, or turbo (sts) I Do occasionally(sp) Pull a horse trailer or 18' boat, sometimes even make the trip fom TN to Miami & back(without a trailer). also which would be better on a stock cam. I can change the cam but If I'm going that far I should probably just do a Head & cam swap instead.. What do you all think??? Thanks

 

in order to do that you would have to buy a used system

 

If you tow, and use the turbo, you will need an intercooler also. Towing keeps you in boost much more making intake temps high which can lead to damage.

 

Speaking from a standpoint of having just purchased an STS kit, a turbo would easily breach the budget you've set for yourself. As mentioned, you would need an intercooler to do any towing at all, and besides that, there are countless small (but expensive!) accessories that go along with having a turbo (injectors, boost controller, gauges, fuel system, etc). After it's all said and done, I'm looking at spending around $10k total (but I'm doing turbo/intercooler/methanol/trans. work).
If you're looking for a fun truck project for under $4000, I'd go with a Heads/Cam setup- Futral Motorsports is a big favorite of mine. Patriot Performance and several others specialize in budget head porting, but do outstanding work. I would start with Allen at Futral, and he'll walk you through the details.

 

gimmie a call on monday, I can help you out with that budget.

 

I've got $3500 in my Radix. I bought it used from a member on here for $2500. It needed a rebuild and I sent it to magnacharger and they put a rotor pack in it. It is basically a new blower now.

 

I got mine from a member here as well, $3800. Complete kit, Had 5K miles on it.

 

Go with a used Radix if you are going to tow, my STS would get way too hot(1600 plus EGT's). You can get used magnachargers in the classifieds in the 3K range.

 

Even if you went with a used kit for FI and got a screaming deal, you cannot go FI without driveline upgrades and ever really hope to use the new power you've added.
Trans upgrades, rebuilds or replacements will eventually happen whether you want to or not. Rear ends, sometimes driveshafts all feel the pain from the power and torque.
Don't forget to add the bigger injectors, tuning, and intercooling that others have mentioned.
Work these costs into your budget and you will have a realistic dollar amount your going to need to have a sound and reliable set up.

 

So would my 4l80e tranny not be happy with a blower? I thought they where pretty tough. I could picture the stock Ring gear snapping like a cheap hoseclamp. especially with the wider tires I have.