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1999 chevy 5.3 performance up grades

2K views 8 replies 5 participants last post by  86chevyjoe 
#1 ·
i just recently purchased a 1999 extra cab chevy with the 5.3L w/ 165K miles. it already has a k&n filter and intake on it.

this rig is my dd but will tow around 5K lbs or less a couple times a year. i plan to put a leveling kit and 285's on.

what upgrades would you guys recommend? i already have the air intake and would think headers and exhaust job would help. whats the best programmer or tuning place to send it to? any help is appreciated. thanks
 
#2 ·
Exhaust and headers help tons on those motors. You can go crazy with a cam/tune/injectors/coils, but if you want to do minor improvements on an already impressive motor, just do the exhaust and switch that KN over for an A.R.E. oil-less washable filter.
 
#4 ·
this
the exhaust on these trucks flow pretty good and unless your running boost or spray you don't need to touch it unless you want more sound

a custom tune will do wonders on these motors but read my next line

I would start saving up for a new trans if its the original,and watch out for the G80 in the 10bolt raer diff
some 4.56's would help with the 285's and towing
a 6.0L drops right in,little bit of work to swap a 4L80e but also easy
 
#6 ·
couple more questions. this thing will see mostly highway and city driving towing a trailer maybe 5 times a year. i'm thinking 4.10s with the 285s?

what programmer is the best for these trucks? it seems everybody and their brother offers a programmer but i just have no idea which one is the best bang for my buck.

chevyboy, will an afe filter work on a k7n air intake tube?
 
#7 ·
I wouldnt bet on it but I dont have the experience to say one way or the other. And exhaust will help. ive seen it first hand more than once.
 
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