New transmission, new performance torque converter or just a rebuild?

[KWinterborne]

Current relevant specs - 06 3500 CTD 4WD DRW 48RE 65K miles and factory exhaust brake; only “performance mod” is MBRP duel exhaust. Maybe someday, a bit more but not much expected... It's a daily driver with ideally a monthly tow of the 5vr.
Anyway, I'm finding pulling a 17k pound fifth wheel from a dead stop/slow speed up a steep hill is requiring more and more throttle. I went to Road Atlanta in the infield this past weekend and wasn't sure I was going to make it up the hill to get back to the hair pin. transmission seems to shift fine and works fine in all other conditions.
My primary goal is to ensure I don't have an issue taking off/going up a big hill; secondary I would like an increase in fuel mileage and performance. Yes, I know, the holy grail, but I've always believed an auto transmission modification was the best way to increase both (achieve the inherent benefits associated with the manual). The perfect upgrade will also include an aftermarket exhaust brake, assuming it gives greater stopping power then the factory exhaust brake I currently have.
So, I'm considering a complete transmission swap, say DTT, ATS, ???; just a new performance torque converter, say BANKS, DTT, ATS, ???; or a transmission rebuild (maybe with a performance torque converter added).
Suggestions? Just to clarify, living in Pensacola/Gulf Coast area, I am not aware of any local shops with a lot of performance minded knowledge, so definitely open to suggestions from any “local” people. In my preliminary research, I did find Sun Coast in Fort Walton Beach, which I can check out, but looking for some alternative education and ideally closer to home.
Thanks in advance!

 

[Cosmo]

Get out of here! Head over to Ft. Walton Beach and talk to the guys at Suncoast Converters. They're not the cheapest trans on the block, but they're local and their stuff is excellent.



I rebuilt the 68rfe in my old 08 with Suncoast guts, and added their billet flexplate, torque converter, and valve body. I can't tell you how happy I was with Ron and the rest of the folks I dealt with there. I even got to pick their brains at the drag strip once.

 

[p-Bar]

I know how you are feeling I moved up from a 7k fiver to a 14k fiver and was very concerned about pulling. Found a quality rebuilder in so cal that uses Goerand parts very good quality he did a total rebuild added a triple disc TC valve body and input shaft he said go ahead and crank up your Smarty now . Best thing I ever did it was about 5k to do it all . Pulls the trailer great now . Good luck

 

[IdahoMan]

p-Bar



What trans rebuilder did you use in Socal?



Thanks, Kevin

 

[p-Bar]

Kevin Inglewood transmission in Fullerton CA. Mike is the owner good guy uses Goerend parts.

 

[IdahoMan]

Thank you!



Kevin

 

[Ozymandias]

You need to know that a tripledisc will always be a little harsh in engagement, there are also converters on market singledisc but with 50% increased clutch surface. Something between a stock and triple.
I've a BD Single installed and very happy how it works, nice engagement, lower stall.