The Ford F-Series of pickups was first introduced in 1948 with the Ford F-1. It remains in production -- as of 2010 -- with various trim lines. The F-150 represents the standard, full-sized version of the Ford F-Series and is the best selling model within the product line. Due mainly to the popularity of the truck, there are a wide variety of aftermarket parts available for the F-150. Many of these increase the horsepower of the vehicle.
Install a performance-aftermarket cold-air intake to replace the Ford F-150 factory air-intake. The air-intake system is responsible for taking in air from the outside, cooling it and funneling it into the engine. Performance-aftermarket cold-air intakes perform these tasks more efficiently, and the additional airflow provides an increase in the horsepower of the truck.
Install a performance-aftermarket exhaust system to replace the Ford F-150 exhaust system. The exhaust system is responsible for directing the hot air of the engine in order to maintain optimal engine temperature. Performance-aftermarket exhaust systems are wider and less restrictive, allowing for enhanced airflow and increasing the horsepower of the truck.
Install an Electronic Control Unit into your F-150's onboard computer. Some older models of the F-150 do not have onboard computers, and thus this performance upgrade is not an option. ECUs reprogram the onboard computer, which monitors and controls various engine functions for maximum performance. This significantly increases the horsepower of the vehicle.
Install a nitrous oxide injection system. Nitrous oxide injection systems connect to the fuel line of the F-150, and inject a shot of nitrous oxide into the fuel system when a lever is pulled or a button is depressed by the driver. Although nitrous oxide systems do nothing for horsepower and torque when not active, they provide a huge, short-term power boost when activated.
Install a forced-air induction kit. Forced-air induction kits come in two different varieties, superchargers and turbochargers; both provide a massive horsepower increase by forcing large amounts of air into the engine. Forced-air induction kits are very expensive and extremely complicated to install, and they essentially overhaul the entire performance of the vehicle. Other upgrades, such as brakes and tires, are recommended to accompany a forced-air induction kit installation for safety reasons.
