just got an 89 5.0 lx

[jersac]

looking to make it faster but have a "wife budget" what are some things that are cheap i can do to make it faster, and btw, i am not to mechanical.
thanks,
sac

[SpectorV]

exhaust, cai, pulleys, gears, and other such things to start with. Im betting it already has exhasut simply because..... ( am i wrong?)

[jersac]

the exhaust is dual "x'd", i have been told if i get it "h'd" it wouold increase horse power?
i also notice a significant difference when the thermastat is in or out, is there a particular thermastat i can put in that won't slow it down? or should i just run it without the thermastat?

[SpectorV]

Its personal preference I wouldnt change the X to an H pipe on the exhaust, just leave it as is for now.

I am not understanding taking the thermostat in and out? its not just super easy to remove can you be more clear as to what you are talking about.

[Tbird232ci]

A thermostat makes no power difference no matter what you do. Just put a new one in and call it done.

[MonteCitan]

don't run without a tstat.. 1) the blockage in the system has a cooling effect (think like the fixed orifice in your AC system) and 2) if a car runs cooler than 160* cylinder wall wear is something like 5-10x what it is at optimum operating temperature when the entire engine is expanded and running as designed..

as far as modifications..

with 3.73 gears, a short throw shifter, CAI and exhaust (seems you already have exhaust) I ran high 13s with my 5.0..

[damighty5.0]

Bump your timing a little to 12*or13*.Use good plugs and wires. Ford racing 9mm wires. Good cap & rotor,and ignition coil.This is pretty basic and cheap I think.