Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Looking for some BOMBing straight talk

[DaveN]

Well, I've been kicking around for a while now the different chips and plates and this and that that's available for my CTD. I think that I'm leaning toward the EZ (or some other similar chip setup). However, I see people ltalking about injectors, fuel plates, and other mechanical mods that provide some improvement as well.



I guess what I'm asking for is if I want a performance improvement that is similar to an "EZ", are there some simple bolt on mods that can be done to provide the same thing? I know that there is some sort of plate on teh injector pump that changes fuel calibrations, would changing this seemingly inexpensive plate provide the same results as changing calibrations through the computer? Or are there other issues with this? Can the same thing be done by swapping injectors?



Everything I see about performance upgrades boil down to "put more fuel in it and it goes faster. " I'm just trying to understand how the different upgrades relate to each other, i. e. computer upgrades vs injector change vs fuel plate vs ???. I know they all work, but how does each one accomplish the change?





Thanks in advance for any input.



Dave

 

[M Evan]

Welcome to the never ending world of Questions. I don't have to much experience so far, but I don't think exist anything so simple to put on CTD engine and make so much difference like EZ do.

M

 

[Rob Thomas]

The "plates" your talkin' about, are for the 12-valvers, so forget those. Also unlike the fords, we dont have "chips", we use "fueling boxes". The 24-valve has plug-in capability, due to the electric injection pump. An EZ, does alter the timing, and change's the fueling curve. The plug-in options are a nice kick in the pants feel, and usually take just a few minutes to install.



The injectors are IMO, a smoother across the RPM range, power boost. Not as noticable as a fueling box, but very nice power nonetheless. Injector installation is quite a bit more involved, and will take a first timer 2+ hours to complete.



If you combine, a fueling box and injectors, you'll wonder why you drove around "stock" for so long. Hope this kinda helps.



BTW, IMO the EZ is the single best performance mod, and is a 5min. install.



Later, Rob

 

[jsnyder]

The chips such as the VA or EZ advance the timing of the fuel delivery. Some other boxes also add additional fuel. Injectors add more fuel.



For simplicity, the boxes are tops. I installed my VA in approximately 90 seconds, start to finish. I was very pleased with the power gain.



I suppose it really depends on how much power you want, and how much time you have to install components. 275 RV injectors would have been slightly cheaper for me to bomb with, but I am not much of a motorhead and the install time was a consideration for me.



Jason



edit: looks like Rob beat me to the "submit" button.

 

[24V-DSL]

Dave... .



Since you have a 24 Valve, forget about "plate" talk. That is 12v technology.



Edge EZ by itself will give you smiles, and your transmission should be ok. Anything beyond that, like injectors and you will put your transmission at risk, and your warranty, as well.



You can learn a lot by searching the archives.

 

[BV]

BOMBing

Also - You will need some sort of box to block the MAP signal and set a code if you go with injectors so most will start with a box then add the injectors. Don't forget about guages if you step up more than just a little.

 

[Car_nut57]

The Western Diesel Turbo RPM Modules work well just as they are without other modifications, but also include a movable jumper if you have done or are going to do injectors etc. The module is the quickest easiest way to get power and improve milage while keeping EGTs very close to stock. The WD Turbo RPM module is 65hp and 188lb-ft at the rear wheels.



Also BV is right, you really should install gauges before any performance modifications.

 

[jerryrigg]

Everything I see about performance upgrades boil down to "put more fuel in it and it goes faster. " I'm just trying to understand how the different upgrades relate to each other, i. e. computer upgrades vs injector change vs fuel plate vs ???. I know they all work, but how does each one accomplish the change?

Your almost there... yes add more Fuel. . but also add more Air

then you need a way to let the Air Out ie. . Exhaust



All Bombs need to work together short of a balancing act. Becareful as some bombs can damage other equipment. 500hp with a stock clutch isn't exactly a good balance.



IMHO:

Start with Gauges so you know what the engine is doing. First get more Air in there, lots of choices: BHAF, Scottys, AFE, K&N. A lot of bombs raise EGTs so I'd go to a 4"-5" exhaust next. After you have the Air going in and out then go with the Fuel, as Rob said boxes are a kick in the pants, injectors are smooth. You have both, now depending on how far you have gone you may need to get more fuel from the tank to the injector pump so time to change fuel pumps and lines. Now where is your power at, maybe time for transmission work. Still going, lets get more air again by changing turbo, want more then twin turbos. It is a vicious addicting cycle that never ends.



Remember Air+Fuel=Power!!

 

[Mundgyver]

Ah a new almost convert to the Dark Side. WELCOME. First thing you should bomb, bar none, is to get your self gages. You need Pyro, Boost, and probably a temp for the transmission. Those should be your first upgrade no matter what. A set of 275's will give you good punch for the money and you should see better fuel economey. After that an EZ since you can remove it totaly if you need to go to the dealer for something. Those two for the engine should be plenty for you to gain experience and knowledge. Thats my recommend. Good luck and have fun.

 

[Big_Daddy_T]

I second what mundgyver said. Once down the dark path you start forever will it dominate your destiny. 275s are a good investment. An EZ is an easy install and it comes off just as EZ. With both your truck will be in great shape for towing.

 

[dezeldog]

Dave N. Sent you a PM let me know what ya think.

Jim