Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Low Budget Upgrades?

[John - K5AWO]

My truck is stock like it came six years ago except for a K&N intake drop in filter and 235 tires on stock rims.



I do not intend to replace the turbo or transmission. I do expect to install the RV injectors (something else better?) and install a 4 inch exhaust.



Question:

How much will the stock transmission take before it gets damaged? I do mostly city/highway driving on the freeways empty. Don't own a 5er yet, that is my retirement house after I retire and sell the big house.



What upgrades do you feel should be done to preserve the status quo and not be breaking parts. I don't mind dropping out of OD and climbing the hills at 45-55 with a trailer as that only represents a tiny fraction of the total driving experience.



So far, my reading has brought to mind:

1. lockup for torque convertor

2. bigger injectors

3. KDP mod

4. pusher pump (installed) and suction prefilter

5. guages to monitor everything



Spares:

1. lift pump

2. filters

3. ??

 

[darkhorse]

John, it's wise to get the guages first. For power increases you could do either a set of mild injectors or a box like the EZ. The EZ is the easiest & least expensive. Do both & you'll need transmission work. A Pro Guard 7 will improve your dust control. A 4" exhaust would do only a little at that power level.

 

[MPBerk]

Try this on for size... . to get ya started

1. KDP mod (you'll sleep better @ night)

2. Guages to monitor everything (EGT-Boost-TTemp)

3. Exhaust

4. transmission (If u gonna tow a 5vr... eventually u gonna need it)

5. Pusher pump (installed) and suction prefilter

6. Bigger injectors and/or box

 

[John - K5AWO]

Thanks MPBerk



I ordered the guages last night from Genos Garage. Chose the dual temp, dual Boost/EGT, and a 30 psi fuel pressure.



I plan on installing a probe in the diff to monitor temps back there too. I talked with my son about that KDP mod and we both agree that has to top of the "must do" list. He has the same rig I got. He's a diesel mech so we can work together on this.