How much hp/tq can an upgraded auto handle?

[KevinK]

I would like to upgrade my transmission (new vb and tc) and also boost the power. I'm thinking of DDIIs or IIIs, but I'm worried about towing. I pull a 10,000# fifth wheel around Colorado and would love some more power. I really need (haha) the power to harass Fords and Chevys when I'm running around empty, but I don't want to destroy the transmission by using all that power over some mountain pass. I haven't heard of upgraded trannies falling apart, but ther has to be some limit that I suspect is not at a very high hp/tq output.



Thanks,

Kevin

 

[work2muchplay2little]

I haven't yet towed anything with my upgrades, so can't help you with personal experience. But, the best source for this kind of info. is straight from the horse's mouth (no offense Bill ) Bill Kondolay, owner of Diesel Transmission Technology (DTT)



http://www.dieseltrans.com

Sales: 1-800-922-7782 Techline: 1-604-504-4002

 

[JKloppe]

KevinK- you should come out to bandimere the 29th for the "Rocky Mountain Cummins Fest. " There you will be able to see many high horsepower trucks racing down the strip. I have some tricks up my sleeve for the 29th. (hope to to be around 500 HP)

 

[JKloppe]

KevinK- you should come out to bandimere the 29th for the "Rocky Mountain Cummins Fest. " There you will be able to see many high horsepower trucks racing down the strip with autos. I have some tricks up my sleeve for the 29th. (hope to be around 500 HP)

 

[Strick-9]

Kevin,



Just because you don't read on TDR about broken parts, doesn't mean they aren't breaking. Usually, the people breaking parts know that they are approaching structural limits and are willing to pay the price if necessary. We aren't going to run to the TDR and bad mouth a vendor just because our trucks break. Some people even have corporate money behind them. So be careful about both what your read here and also what you don't.



The more power you have, the more you'll have to worry with transmission problems.



I personally would recommend staying at 260 hp or less if you don't want to worry with your transmission at all. But at that level you shouldn't harass too many other diesel or you might be surprised.



My personal truck is around 350 horsepower and I RARELY let anyone drive it. With a heavy load, I could damage my transmission if I wanted to. I've learned how to use that power wisely, and I expect my current transmission to live a long time.



The moral is: You have to be willing to adjust your driving style to accomodate the extra power or stay VERY conservative with the power level.



-Chris