Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) New TD owner questions...

[JCard]

Hello, I just purchased (in December) a 2001 Ram 2500 diesel SLT Quadcab 4x4 auto with 114,000 miles completely stock. This is my first diesel vehicle so I am trying to learn as much as I can. I am using it as my daily driver and to tow my Jeep Wrangler on a trailer. The truck is completely stock and never had a 5th wheel installed although it has seen towing duties by the previous owner. I have a few noobie questions though:



First, where exactly do I need to look to see if it has the dreaded 53 block I've been reading about? When I purchased the truck from the car dealer, I also bought an exteded drivetrain warrenty of 5 years, 100,000 miles on top of what it already has on it. So I should be covered if it does crack but I would like to know if I should worry about it.



Secondly, I've heard the Cummins Diesel is good but in stock trim dosen't make use of it's full power potential. Is this true and if so, what modifications, add-ons, aftermarket items do I need to look at to wake this engine up? What order should I do these in? I've heard and believe the first thing I need to do is get gauges such as EGT, Boost, and Trans temp. right? What next?



Any other info, tips, suggestions are greatly appreciated!



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[mrtwister]

With the guages listed also purchase a fuel pressure guage. This might be the most important guage you will buy. The lift pumps have been known to go out and low fuel pressure will starve the injector pump. $1500. 00 for a new one. Second to wake it up some more install a 4" exhaust and a BHAF. Wanna go more. I opted for an EDGE EZ Chip. Just the chip makes a world of difference. One thing to keep in mind is your transmission. Diesel Transmission Technologys ( DTT ) has many products to help out your transmisson. Just depends on how much $$$ you want to spend. Once you start you won't stop.

 

[IC Smoke]

I second Mrtwister, fuel pressure is a MUST on 24V! I have a Edge aka "bd" Comp box,at the touch of a button its off, and on between 40-120 hp on 5 mail levels. www.genoesgarage.com Its your new home other than TDR!!!



1. GAUGES ASAP!

2. air filter BHAF or AFE

3. Exhaust, 4" or 5" straight pipe if you dont mind a little bark

4. COMPLETE DTT trans

5. Edge comp box or other box/"chip" to wake your sleeping beauty

6-? Injectors, hx 40, twin turbos, propane, water injection... the list goes on and on! do a search and you will find ALOT of information!



I flipped 4-5 stock trans doesnt like the box, although I do.



. 02

Ian



ps- Check under my name "readers rigs" and you will see photos of my gauges