Hi and welcome to mightyram. A programmable ECU will come down to what you've done to modify the engine. If it's still stock then I wouldn't change the ECU unless your truck is a 1990 model as there were issues with this year model ECU and engine peripherals. There are gains to be made by experimenting with ignition timing and tuning as the factory recommended tuning specs are a base line for worst case scenario engine starts. The Microsquirt appears to be one of the best budget/entry level stand alone ECU's, but without engine mods (cam, custom intake manifold, turbo etc) probably won't make any big power increases. Just my opinion - someone with real experience with programmable ECU's will be able to give you more insight.