I have a 2020 XLT 4x4 crew cab with a 5.0 and 3.31 gears. The truck is completely stock, but I am experiencing significant inconsistency at the drag strip. My ETs vary between 14.30 and 14.90 seconds, despite taking consistent steps like disabling the AdvanceTrac, switching to sport mode, driving around the water box, and shifting into 4 HI. I start from idle and let the transmission shift on its own. My coolant temperature stays between 190 and 200, and the transmission temp between 180 and 190. MPH is consistently between 95 and 96.
This inconsistency makes it challenging to race successfully, and I often have to sandbag during eliminations. Has anyone experienced similar performance issues? What did you do to improve it? I have noticed that many consistent passes on YouTube are from trucks with at least a tune. I would prefer a less expensive solution, like pulling a fuse or similar. Any advice?