2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Best mileage and longer lasting engine?

[bbradford]

I recently purchased a 1997 3500. Being a CTD newbie, what ad-ons or modifications would be most cost effective to maximize my fuel mileage and extend the life of my engine?







White 1997 3500 2wd, LWB, Auto, SLT Laramie, Leather, 99,000 miles, totally stock

 

[ndurbin]

bump the timing upto around 16*, get ride of the cat and muffler, and a BHAF.

 

[edgrim]

bump the timing upto around 16*, get ride of the cat and muffler, and a BHAF.

Do a search on timing the 12 Valves, don't ride the "cat" get rid of the cat and get a straight pipe or flow thru muffler for your exhaust, and increase the air flow. "BHAF" = Big Honking Air Filter.



See my signature, my add-ons increased speed and power but my fuel mileage averages around 16-17 mpg didn't go up, but it didn't go down either Oo. .

 

[BKenny]

Congrats Im not an expert (just got mine this year)but i would invest in gauges like boost/EGT/fuel pressure and trans temp . With yours being a 12valve you don,t have to worry about your fuel system as much as a 24 valve. I would do a search on KDP its a dowle pin in the front of your engine and they have been know to work there way out. There is a fix to prevent it from happening with that many miles it would be wise to look in to it. If the dowel pin works its all the way out it can get caught between gears in the frount of your engine and cause some damage$$$$. I hope i did,nt scare you with that but its good you came here there is an endless wealth of knowlege in the TDR . I have learned and got alot of good advise here. The 12 valve engines seem to be easer and cheeper to hop up some time i wish i would have bought one . I would keep it mild unless your planing for a trany upgrade. Good Luck and have fun

 

[bbradford]

Thanks guys. You have all been a great deal of help. All of your suggestions were great. I have an appointment next Tuesday at a local shop recommended by the regional TDR chapter to have my dowel pin problem fixed, valves adjusted and timing set. Next addition will probably be a new exaust system. I am also planning to attend the local TDR fall rally next Saturday in Kingsport, TN, so I am hoping to make a whole new set of "diesel" friends.



I purchased the truck in Texas, and on the trip back to Tennessee, I got between 20. 4 and 22. 6 mpg depending upon my speed. I was extremely happy with that.



TDR is great, and I'm telling everyone I know about it.



Thanks again,



Ben