We like superchargers, especially their whine and commotion and the way that they push us into our seats when we mash the throttle. So, we asked Whipple Superchargers to install one on our project F-150. Whipple's system was designed for the 5.4L 24-valve V-8 that powers the late-model Ford F-150 and Expedition. As you know, installing a supercharger takes a lot of work. So, rather than paraphrase the 54-page manual, we decided to simply give you the high points of what it takes to add gobs of power to your Ford. If you become inspired to run out and buy the Whipple Ford Racing F-150 and Expedition Supercharger System, then we suggest you take it to a shop that knows what it's doing. And, if you can afford the 6-grand for a supercharger, then you can afford to pay a technician to install it, right?
The truck was prepped and...
The truck was prepped and ready to go. Here's a view of the engine before the installation of the supercharger.
A lot happened before this...
A lot happened before this pic was snapped. Radiator hoses, radiator shroud, throttle body, and a factory air intake and filter were removed from the factory intake manifold.
There were a few steps that...
There were a few steps that happened to get to this point. The alternator support bracket was taken out, but it and its nuts were saved for later reinstallation. The G-rib serpentine belt was removed, and then the factory alternator was taken out. Next went the factory thermostat, but the O-ring was kept for later. The factory manifold was removed after all of the attendant hoses, lines, and the fuel injectors-and their bolts-were disconnected and set aside for later. One exception was the EVAP hose that was removed, but its 90-degree fitting was saved for later. Then, the factory coil packs were reinstalled.
Zero-degree spark plugs that...
Zero-degree spark plugs that come with the kit replaced the factory ones. Then a spring-load tensioner stop was modified to achieve greater travel. Factory intake gaskets were cut to fit the Whipple manifold, and the fuel rails were installed on that manifold. Once the Whipple manifold was placed onto the engine, all of the hoses, lines, and wires were attached to it.
The supercharger was installed,...
The supercharger was installed, along with the throttle body, to its rear inlet housing.
Next, the alternator was placed...
Next, the alternator was placed into its new location below the supercharger. The pulley was attached to the supercharger, and a 6-rib serpentine belt ran between the supercharger, power steering, water pump, crank, AC, alternator, and all of the associated idler pullies-including a couple that came with the kit.