Building the ultimate street towing machine

[toolman]

Hi all,

I've been lurking for quite a while and learning from you all. Thanks much for the great info.

Last July, I sold my 98. 5 2500/TST modified ECM/275 injectors and purchased a new 3500 hoping to build a better (and safer) towing vehicle. I regularly tow a 15k gooseneck trailer in NC.

In short:
- I greatly miss the power of the previous truck
- I'm having EGT trouble now with the new truck towing in the stock configuration
- The fuel mileage stinks (14. 5 empty, 9-10 towing)

My BOMBing goals are:
- Increase the power (300-350hp/700+ torque) and reduce the EGTs
- Maintain the daily driving characteristics and reliability

I'm considering the following mods in this order (Already got the basics, see signature):
- Fuel line/lift pump upgrade (something like HVAC)
- Fuel pressure gauge
- ATS manifold
- HX40 Turbo/16cm, DDIII, boost module
- 4" turbo back exhaust
- Replacing the 3" turbo mounted BD exhaust brake with an inline 4" BD brake
- Clutch upgrade

My questions are:
- I'm concerned with using the ATS manifold and an exhaust brake.
The concern centers on the "slip fitting" of the 3 pieces and the possibly of an exhaust leak. Anyone with any experience?
- Is the DD combo the best route for me? Is there a better route?
- Are all HX40 turbos created equal?
Specifically, how does the "SuperTurbo" from BD differ from a HX40 turbo from DD?
- Anyone running the DD combo had their oil checked for blow by?
- Is the DD combo proven in terms of reliability?

Thanks again for all the great info.
Eddie


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01 3500 QC, 4x4, ETH, 6sp, 4. 10 LSD, Loaded and blacked out
Isspro Boost/Pyro, Magtec, BD exhaust brake, Rhino liner
Custom gooseneck hitch/air spings

 

[arlan]

Hello Eddie,
Nice to have you aboard! I have the ATS manifold and a pacbrake. I had a leak between the ATS manifold and the turbo which I fixed yesterday by inserting two turbo gaskets. When I recieved the ATS manifold I noticed the the milled surface where the turbo mounts did not appear to be perfect. The brightness of the milling process was missing somewhat towards the center but I didn't contact them as I was about to leave for Alaska and was in a hurry. A few weeks ago my pacbrake started messing up and while working on it I noticed the leak. Hopefully the use of double gaskets with hold. As for it leaking at the slip fittings, this has never been a problem. The manifold has been on about 15,000 miles. As for power, have you considered going with one of TST's Powermaxes? I love my Powermax1 and wouldn't leave home without it.
Arlan

[This message has been edited by arlan (edited 01-14-2001). ]

 

[Chad Sheets]

Off topic... Lexington N. C. I'snt there a place called Stevens BBQ in Lexington??

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Always ready to help!
2000 2500 Red Sport quad cab, 4x4, K&N, DDI's, straight piped, boost, pyro and fuel pressure gages, Hot Power Edge, mean looking set of 33. 5" tires, Snap On diamond tool box, Marine Corps window sticker, Semper Fi!

1972 340 Cuda'. Original tripple Black, 340 car w/air. Good clean car, super stock springs, Weld Prostars, shaker hood, strong 340 with a 727/4000 stahl, 4. 56... . Bombs away!
NRA Life Member. http://www.geocities.com/chadsheets

 

[toolman]

Arlan,

Yes, I'm considering the adjustable Powermax but I have to get the EGTs down at the same time. This is why I'm starting from the exhaust and moving forward with the mods.

Chad,

Don't know of a Steven's BBQ. By chance are you referring to Speedy's BBQ? Some of the best around... .

Eddie


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01 3500 QC, 4x4, ETH, 6sp, 4. 10 LSD, Loaded and blacked out
Isspro Boost/Pyro, Magtec, BD exhaust brake, Rhino liner
Custom gooseneck hitch/air spings