Lack of power (engine/tranny??) - Ford Forums

sala7002 · 05-16-2009, 13:23

I have a 2000 F150XLT V6 5spd that I just bought. The truck runs well except for this one nagging problem. I don't seem to have any power whenever going up steep hills or trying to pass another car without downshifting. It doesn't bog down or anything. It seems to me that I should be able to increase power (like a passing gear on auto. trannies) without downshifting. Any ideas on what might be the problem. I've recently had the engine tuned and head gasket replaced. Everything tested okay. I'm guessing that the problem is related to the transmission. I'm mechanically challenged, but I am a "seasoned" driver that notices potential problems in any vehicle driven. I'm hoping to get some good advice from this forum as to what I need to do BEFORE I have to take the truck in for professional help.

**360ci** · 05-16-2009, 20:12

Passing gear on an auto? Don't think so. Any forward gear is a passing gear with an auto. If you push the gas hard enough you'll even downshift to pass, providing it's necessary.

I suggest starting with a simple tune up, and possibly switching to synthetic fluids (engine, and trans). There are a lot of manual transmission gear oil options out there in synthetic, if in doubt, use a grade suggested in the owners manual. Also be sure that the air filter isn't dirty, and replace it if is. It's a commonly overlooked item.

If you like to drive in the middle of the power band (2500-3000rpm) then I suggest getting a CAI, cold air intake. You can pick one up online or at most performance shops for about $150. You won't get your money back in fuel savings, but it'll give you a few hp in the mid to upper rpm range.

Depending on how steep these hills are that you're talking about, you might want to consider a lower gear for the axle. If you're running 3.55/3.73 stock, then a 4.10 would be a decent upgrade and provide less clutch slip as well when taking off. It will however, lower highway fuel economy slightly. Another bonus is that your cruising rpm will be higher, allowing for passing on moderate grades without having to downshift.

Curious, how many miles are on the truck?

sala7002 · 05-18-2009, 23:16

Thanks for the info! The truck is approaching 100K miles. It's had a tuneup recently and a manifold gasket replaced. Other than this power loss, the truck runs smooth.

**jwko** · 05-19-2009, 07:07

Because it's a 5speed. It's not like a auto that will downshift when you punch it.