Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) 3kGSK or 4kGSK

[biggy238]

I did A search to try and satisfy my question, but I think it needs directly addressed.





With the cost not an issue, Would I benefeit from the extra 400 usable RPM I would stand to gain between the 3k and the 4k?



I state it like that because, from what i've read, A 3k can rev approximately to 3400 rpm on most trucks, and If I had a 4k, I probably would never see more than 3800-3900, one because I don't want to turn it that fast, and two because it's out of the power band by then.



I know i've pretty well answered myself, but i'd like to know if an aftermarket camshaft would make use of that extra rpm (a mod very far down the road) that the 4k provides.



I use the truck to get around and I street race about once a week. :-laf



Tell me what you've got and what you think.

 

[Sandifer]

I ended up going with the 4gsk. I liked the idea of heavier duty valve springs. I have had them now for about 5k miles and can't complain. I also decided on the 4gsk because it's there if you ever decide to go radical and there is no disadvantage to having it. Go with the 4gsk.

 

[WadePatton]

The only 4k I've driven was twitchy and UNsmooth. I'm sure they don't have to be that way, but it was. Maybe it needed some tuning.



You can put heavier springs on without installing the 4k.



You can "convert" the 4k to a 3k by manipulating gov springs.



I may try 4k someday when I've had the head off and done the springs and a lot of other little stuff, but 3 is plenty right now.

 

[DavidTD]

When I think if Gov. Springs, I think about the point of defueling, not max rpm.

 

[bkroupa]

Like DavidTD said, the 4k won't start defueling at 3k.

I have the 4k & I really like the way it drives. I don't drive hard, but it makes scooting through an intesection before having to granny shift to 3rd much quicker, it also makes it really nice pulling my TT to help let me cleanly pull a little higher RPM's to help with the RPM drop between shifts while climbing a grade. No drivability issues. One of the best changes I've done to the truck.

 

[BTighe]

The only 4k I've driven was twitchy and UNsmooth. I'm sure they don't have to be that way, but it was. Maybe it needed some tuning.



You can put heavier springs on without installing the 4k.



You can "convert" the 4k to a 3k by manipulating gov springs.



I may try 4k someday when I've had the head off and done the springs and a lot of other little stuff, but 3 is plenty right now.

i had the same issue when i had the 4k springs in. i didnt want to change out the valve springs so i pulled the little springs till i get around to it. i drives alot smoother without the little spring. probably needs some tuning.

 

[sam616g]

I have the 4K spring kit. With an automatic, your transmission won't allow your to rev past about 2500 rpm between shifts anyway unless you manually overide the shift points. So you'll never see past 3,000 rpm until your in 4th gear. And depending on your gearing you may be going fast enough by 3,000 rpm :--) .

 

[biggy238]

Does the transmission override the o/d lockout at 2500? It's 3rd gear I actually intend to use the rpm with. If it shifts to forth anyway that will irritate the he!! out of me.

 

[sam616g]

My trans will just shift at about 2500 if I have my foot down. Normally alot sooner. I've never had a need to go higher than 3000 rpm in 4th gear lock up.

 

[HotRodCummins12v]

about what you said about the camshaft... you can get them, they are pricey, the best way to cheaply use your topend is to advance your timing. even if you do get a cam, you will still sacrifice bottom for top. but still 4k is much better bang for your buck

 

[biggy238]

Well, you understand what I mean though that without a cam, the stock camshaft becomes restrictive at or before 4k rpm. I just don't want to unload the money on something that i would have to go that in-depth to see it's true potential.



Anyone have a write up on how to swap the valve springs? My valves all need adjusted anyway.

 

[Cooker]

With the 4k springs you give up some bottom end.

 

[Jim Fulmer]

I have the 4K spring kit. With an automatic, your transmission won't allow your to rev past about 2500 rpm between shifts anyway unless you manually overide the shift points. So you'll never see past 3,000 rpm until your in 4th gear. And depending on your gearing you may be going fast enough by 3,000 rpm :--) .

Here is some sick stuff for you!



Auto, 3. 54 gear, 32 tall tire (265/75) OD at 3750 RPM... ... you figure the MPH, and I won't do it again!



Jim

 

[sam616g]

Here is some sick stuff for you!



Auto, 3. 54 gear, 32 tall tire (265/75) OD at 3750 RPM... ... you figure the MPH, and I won't do it again!



Jim

:--) :--) :--)

 

[biggy238]

The sick thought is having enough power to wind it that high in OD. OOHHH i have so much to do to this truck.



I looked at the numbers the first time i was ready to buy the gsk. It put a smile on my face.

 

[biggy238]

I have another question. Right now, this truck won't break loose on dry pavement. Will this mod allow it to tach high enough quickly enough to turn the tires over?

It's not really an issue for me, I just was curious about it.



Kyle

 

[Jim Fulmer]

The sick thought is having enough power to wind it that high in OD. OOHHH i have so much to do to this truck.



I looked at the numbers the first time i was ready to buy the gsk. It put a smile on my face.

Actually it's sick how fast it gets there and it doesn't lay over, pulls just as hard at 3600 as it does at 3000.



Stay in the lower HP range and you will have more fun and more money.



Jim

 

[biggy238]

Anyone have the readup on this install?? I'd like to read the have spring installation to see if i'm in over my head or not. I can squeeze the $$$ to get the kit but not to pay someone to install it.

 

[Devan Manis]

Biggy, is this what you want? http://www.dodgeram.org/tech/dsl/more_power/GovSpring.htm

 

[biggy238]

Close But no Cigar. I had a good look at the pump end of this install, What I need is the instructions on how to install the 60pound exhaust valves that come with the 4kgsk.