Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) 12v advice

[BSwope]

Im plannig to build a 12v to do some sledpulling, and i would like to hear some opinions on on how to go about building a stout puller that will be drove for some daily driveing! I know i need gauges and air flow along with exhaust, just thought u fellas could let me in on what some of u have done to your trucks, or what u would go with to set up a truck? year of truck will be between 94 and 98.

 

[Smokin_Monster]

First thing is a good clutch! Without that the rest doesn't matter. If you can come up with the change get a dual disc. Sled pulling will eat a single disc up pretty quick. Once or twice a year might be ok for a single but once you start pulling you will be hooked! I run aFe intake, HTT Sled Puller 66 turbo, 4 inch exhaust (soon to be dual 5" stacks )191 dv's(soon to be laser cut dv's)370 injectors, 4k gsk,afc spring, SBC 3850lb 12FB DD clutch, 315 BFG AT/ko, some weights up front and removable rear suspension blocks. Ladder bars would be a good addition. I drive over 2,000 miles a week and no problems. I have a few trophies on the mantle Some of this stuff is new this year so we'll see how much they improve things.

 

[BSwope]

Thanks Smokin! This is the kinda info i need! I dont want to go into this head first with out some advice! What is a good direction to go on the pump? And also what is the point of head studs in these trucks, ive heard 30-32lb is recamened for the heavier studs?

 

[Smokin_Monster]

I run a custom made #0 plate. Which is fine for now. If you have the money a race pump from Piers would definately be better. Head studs are a good idea. I have about 290,000 miles on my stock headgasket and I run over 45 lbs of boost and no problems with my stock studs yet. I am planning on porting and 0-ringing the head and putting in a stage 1 cam from Piers so I can turn up the boost to around 60 psi. Studs would definately be good to have then. 12mm up to 80psi, 14mm over 80psi. 12mm you won't have to drill and tap anything.