The next upgrade

[ILarson]

I've got a '96 2500, automatic CA 2wd. So far, I've upgraded to 4" exhaust (w/ cat & muffler deletes), AFE intake manifold, custom ram intake (based on PSM diesel's), and an ATS exhaust manifold. What next? Kinda short on funds, and I want to make a good next investment. I'm thinking one of the following:



a) Dynomite Diesel 50hp injectors



b) Banks Quick Turbo Assembly



c) Banks Git-Kit



With my current set-up, what would be a good next move? I'd appreciate any input, besides the options I've listed, I'm just trying to stay around $450-$500. Thanks.

 

[MRoberts]

Gauges should be on your list.



How is your transmission? Before adding power I would give serious thought to upgrading it.



After you address both of those, DDP injectors are a great idea.



PS-There are better ways of spending your money then on Banks!

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

Yes get gauges, if you only do the injectors then the stock turbo will be OK for now.

Instead of getting a Banks package go for a cam plate such as a TST #6 plate which will give a nice HP boost, then for a turbo do a modified Switzer S300 such as a 62/65/12 ie. a BD Power Super B turbo, or a HTB2 "street stock 62" from High Tech Turbo.

 

[ILarson]

Yes get gauges, if you only do the injectors then the stock turbo will be OK for now.



Instead of getting a Banks package go for a cam plate such as a TST #6 plate which will give a nice HP boost, then for a turbo do a modified Switzer S300 such as a 62/65/12 ie. a BD Power Super B turbo, or a HTB2 "street stock 62" from High Tech Turbo.

When you say the stock turbo is fine "only" with the injectors, do you mean that if I did the TST plate as well, I would need to upgrade the turbo? And I know the cam plate won't improve mileage, but will it hurt it?



Also, is a transmission temp gauge necessary? I guess EGT and boost gauges are in order, but I don't really haul much, and am pretty easy on the throttle. Or are the power upgrades on their own cause to monitor transmission temp?



Thanks.

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

Yes ILarson if you had gauges and were careful you could do injectors and cam plate with the stock turbo but it would limit your power potential and you'd have to drive by the pyrometer especially if towing.

I had mild injector and cam plate upgrades in my '98 when the original trans had 140,000 miles on it, and it now has 208,000 with no issues, all without a temp gauge.

Yes a cam plate can reduce your MPG however if you drive sensibly your MPG reduction should be minor. It didn't make a noticeable difference in my '98.