Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) New subscriber Question -

[JimKing]

I am new to both TDR and Dodge/Cummins. Last year I bought a used 2001 Q-cab/ SWB/ auto/ from the local dealer. guy that traded it in had logged 24 service visits for poor steering/handling. I bought it as-is for $5K under low book. Used that 5K to replace the ball joints (both lowers were trashed) install Darin's steering brace and a DT trac-bar. Now I have the greatest truck imaginable, with only 30 K miles on it.



I also changed my injectors for 275's and added a Turbo Master (28psi) and a K&N filter, a Donaldson Muffler and 4" down pipe. Power is great when pulling my 28' travel trailer. Gas mileage is decent 20-24 flat and empty, 15-18 pulling the travel trailer.



My Question is: Can I make any more power without electronic enhancements ?? Or, more to the point, if a electronic controller is added, can it be removed if I need to visit my dealer ? My friend at the Dealer says they look for mods on every potential warranty claim.



Lastly, how do these controllers impact the transmission ?? Right now it is fine, I wouldn't want to have to stop and remove the parts from the road the first time it missed a shift climbing a hill.



I am picking up a new Alfa 5er (11,000 lbs empty) this weekend, so I am a little concerned about power.



I had my truck dyno'ed in Phoenix 3 weeka ago, on a 115 degree day it was putting 267 HP to the ground at 2650 RPM and 535 Lb of torque at 1700 RPM.

Seems OK but the first pull up the Black Canyon Hill will tell.



TIA -

 

[Bob Wagner]

I would leave it "as is " until you address the transmission



The 1st haul will be all

 

[Justbeamn]

JimKing, welcome to the TDR and gongrats on the first post.



With the A/T you are limited on power enhancements if you wish to keep the stock transmission intact. An easy modification would be the addition of several types of electronic power enhancements that easily unplug if you need to go to the dealer. There are some great transmission guru's out there that can modify your transmission to fit you needs... then you can add whatever you want.



Some people will tell you they have 275's (or higher) with a box and do not have any problems... yet. The torque converter is the week link in the setup. Do some research here, this is the best place to get the information.



Good luck,



Devon

 

[rashwor]

Thoughts...

Welcome to the TDR!



You probably should create a signature detailing the information about your truck. It helps to know what you have.



I am assuming you have a auto transmission. If so, you will need to beef it up before proceeding with any other power bombs. Next, get gauges. Fuel pressure (lift pumps that supply the injector pump die often on these trucks), and EGT at a minimum.



To answer your question, you can add even bigger injectors. I would guess that you could add DD (Diesel Dynamics) stage 1 (50 RWHP) with a boost elbow and probably be ok depending on the loads you pull.



Disclaimer: This is only an opinion! I am running the Edge EZ box with stock injectors.

 

[parcher]

JimKing, "Hiding" modifications that you KNOW will void your warranty is one of the most controversial subjects on this board, some have no problem with, other equate it to stealing. Let your conscience be your guide.

 

[Sticks]

Originally posted by parcher

JimKing, "Hiding" modifications that you KNOW will void your warranty is one of the most controversial subjects on this board, some have no problem with, other equate it to stealing. Let your conscience be your guide.

And technically, you voided the warranty when you put the first aftermarket item on the engine/suspension (two different warranties or subjects therein). DC has drawn a very solid line on that.

 

[andrewkoperdak]

Ya go to larger injectors. I have stage IIIs and dyno'ed at 285 HP and 617 torque with a 875 CFM air filter and 31 psi boost fooler. No other mods. Could have gotten better numbers but I told the guy not to exceed 30 PSI boost, 1200 degrees EGT, and no more than 3000 RPM.