Do I need to upgrade Trans/Torque Conv.

[mopeg]

First time posting here and I have a question. Pardon in advance if this subject has been thoroughly thrashed in previous posts.....



I have an '06 Dodge 3/4T 4x4 5. 9L Turbo Diesel with automatic. I loaded the Bully Dog Power Pup module and recently added the "Crazy Larry" upgrade which Bully Dog's support tech states will deliver 505 rwhp.



All that being said, it was recommended to do trans and TC upgrades to handle this. I thought about this a while and am not sure that this is needed. NOT having much of an automotive background, it seems to me that the transmission is subject to the power of the engine at one end and the resistance (vehicle weight and load) at the other end.



If I am correct so far, it further seems that the stock power level of the engine PLUS the maximum vehicle capacity should cause no problem to the trans, even under heavy acceration. So... . If the weight is reduced and the power is increased, it seems that the total strain on the trans would be the same. If so, I could get away with using the highest power level as long as there is no heavy load?



I am hoping to do some occassional bracket racing with this setup. Any thoughts on this??

 

[mberry]

The short answer is no, your transmission will fail with not much more than 50+ horsepower added. It has nothing to do with the weight or the towed load. It has to do with the lockup clutches and their weakness along with some other internal parts. You will get a lot of opinions, but it I were in your shoes, I would look at a lot more trans upgrades than a TC & VB to hold that much power and be reliable. Do your research and spend your money wisely is my only advice for what it's worth.

 

[raychem]

For what your doing... A full transmission would be in store for you and another thing... the stock turbo on your truck is good for about 420-440 the the rear which puts you at about 500 hp to the flywheel... unless you have already upgraded the turbo and fuel system.



Richard

 

[mberry]

Welcome to the TDR also!

 

[Bodie]

Like others have said you need the transmission upgrades. As far as Crazy Larry making 505hp I don't doubt it but you will need other upgrades to get there. When they say it "will deliver 505hp" they leave out the fine print. What they really mean is it "will deliver 505hp if you already have a fuel system to supply it, transmission upgrades to hold it, and maybe a turbo upgrade to cool it" I garrenty when you nail it with a stock transmission on CL you are slipping, and your are running about 2 pounds of fuel pressure... . not good

 

[mopeg]

Thanks to all for the replies! It's good to be educated. I will be gentle with CL as it has increased my fuel mpg about 1 - 1. 5.