Towing Power ?

[Jerky]

Have a 2002 6 speed, do quite a lot of towing. Would like to know the best way to go for more power. Do not want to replace my clutch. Would it be a VA or EZ box or injectors? Would also like to know If the stock exuast system is fine for what I want to do. Thanks - Dean

 

[RustyJC]

We tow a 13,500 lb 36' 5th wheel with our 2002 HO/6-speed. Stock, EGT's ran as high as 1300 degF pre-turbo, so I personally wouldn't add larger injectors without providing more air as well - this means you'll need a boost elbow and boost fooler to go with the injectors.



If you're never going to add larger injectors, the Edge EZ will make a noticeable difference for towing. It increases low-end and midrange torque significantly. That was the first real "power" mod I made (after the BHAF and 4" exhaust) to our truck. If larger injectors are in your future, I'd look at the Diesel Dynamics True Torque Power Module instead of the EZ - the TTPM is an EZ that's programmed to Diesel Dynamics' specs for use with larger injectors and is significantly less aggressive on timing advance than the EZ. The EZ/DD2 combination I have is a little more aggressive on injection timing than I really want for heavy towing.



And, based on my experience, you're right about the clutch. Our stock clutch never slipped with the EZ - until we added the DD2 injectors this winter. The stock HO clutch slipped the same day the injectors went in - running empty and nailing the throttle at 1800 RPM in 5th gear!



Rusty

 

[csaba]

Dean,



We have a 38' 5th wheel and a 2002 HO, like yours. See mods in the sig and pictures in my reader's rig.



I was told that the stock clutch is build for 250hp and not much more; so you'll have to be very easy on it if you add power. Mine slipped the first time I wanted to "show off" ... . my bad!



I liked the EZ as a good first upgrade, but as they say around here ... . add gages first, so you can keep an eye on your EGTs.



The intake and the 4"exhaust will keep the truck run with low EGT's; and make it sound pretty nice.



The F. A. S. S keeps the right fuel pressure and clean the fuel.



I just got the truck back from the shop, but tomorrow I'll tow with it, so I can tell you how it pulls compared to the stock.



If you need any further info on my set up ... PM me.



Csaba

 

[rfcom]

Jerky, I was in the same boat as you. My trailer is about 7K and maybe another 1K in the box (ATV + stuff). My power upgrades (see sig) allow me to keep the stock clutch, intake and exhaust although I did put on a 4" straight thru muffler. No problems with EGTs or slippage and lots of pulling power. HTH



Jim

 

[Froadin]

I did the exhaust first, then rv275 injectors and gauges. I towed across the country a few times like this, and it worked out very well for me.

As soon as I added the VA I smoked the clutch.

I honestly feel my SBC clutch is better then stock, and makes shifting so much easier! And it still holds the power easily. Well worth the $ spent.