First step on that long expensive journey

[Archive]

As of today I have just order a TST #12 plate (230/605) and AFC Spring Kit, begining my long expensive march into the world of truck upgrades. I have done a search on posts about TST and was looking for some installation tips and traps to look out for during the installation but to no avail. My mechanical skills leave much to be desired (except for lawn mowers and log spliters motors) and I will be having a neighbor help me out who was an ASE certified mechanic. My question is this: what advice can you folks provide me about the TST plate and spring kit installation ... special things to look out for, tricks to make the installation go much easier, etc...
I am planning to install the kits this or next weekend and would very much appreciate any advise.

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1997 2500 ST 4x4, 5-speed, 4. 10 axle, TST 60lb boost @ EGT gauges

 

[Archive]

Fatcat,

The only problem I had was getting the breakoff screw out. After several false starts, I finally bought an extra-long 1/8" drill (to clear the injector lines) and drilled a shallow hole in the center of the screw. Then I used a #25 Torxs bit with the hand impact screwdriver to remove the screw. It came right out.

The TST directions and video are very good and, if followed, will lead you down the right path.

By the way, since you have the 5-speed manual transmission and the AFC spring kit, you might want to consider using the #11 TST Plate. #ad


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1996 Dodge 2500 4X4 SC, SLT, Cummins 12V, 5-spd. , JRE 4" exhaust (my kitty ran off into the woods and the muffler fell off!), TST 280 HP/685 Ft-Lb Uprate Kit, AFC Spring Kit, Horton Fan Clutch, Jacobs/Ram Exhaust Brake, MagHytec Differential Cover, Prime-Loc, Rancho RS9000 Shocks, Combo Gauge, K&N Filter, Brite-Box, Geno's finger-touch oil pan drain plug, no turbo silencer ring, full-time fog lights.

 

[Archive]

Fatcat,
Look at some of Joeseph Donnelly's posts and give him an e-mail, have to say he has more experience with TST then anyone.