Towing recommendations?

[vnapple]

I just bought my truck, and I love it. I am going to spend the next year prepping it for a drive around the country with a 5er, so I would like some recommendations on intake/exhaust/chip combos for my set-up. I care less about making my truck a dragster than I do about squeezing the most mpg out of it, while still being able to climb through the rockies several times. I would also appreciate any tips on fluids, cooling, hitches, etc.



Thanks,

Vinny

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'03 2500 6 speed, 4x4, 4. 10, crew cab, short bed, laramie package. Stock, stock, stock.

 

[Mundgyver]

If you want to set up for towing, I would recomend the following in the order listed. EGT, Boost, Engine Oil Temp gages 1st. ATS split Manifold 2nd. Exhaust brake with 4 inch exhaust to the back 3rd. Next would be motor home injectors, I have 275's on mine, I am not sure what the 3rd gen would be. Edge makes a nice chip for our trucks, give them a call. You will probably want a MAG-HI Tech Diff Cover for added lube on the rear end and maybe the FastCool transmission cooler for the 6speed. You also will want to look into a FASS style unit for keeping fuel that is water and air free to the motor.

I have been to 23,000 lbs with no problems. Going down the road is not a problem, it is the stopping that you need to work on. For this I use a Jordan Brake controller. You can loose you truck brakes, but still have your trailer brakes and good control with the exhaust brake. Hold your towing speed to 65 and you should get fair mileage. With 23,000 lbs at 65 mph, I average 15. 5 mpg. My next big upgrade will be a Gear-Vendors over drive to allow me 11 forward gears with a double overdrive. That would my my suggestion. Hope your pockets are full, cause your wife will want to know why you are upgrading a perfectly good truck Good luck For lube, ditch the dyno oil and move to synethic all the way. Towing uphill on a long grade will see your engine oil in the 245 deg range. I put Amsoil in mine at 1,500 turns and have not looked back. I have 145,000 miles on my truck, still have my factory original breaks with 40% of the pads left. The Centra-Matics keep the tires nice an even for wear and excellent mileage life.

 

[vnapple]

My wife already wants to know why I think that the truck needs more, but she should know me by now. Thanks for the tips -- they are exactly what I am looking for.



Vinny

 

[TRAMPLINEMAN]

If you go with a Mag-Hytec rear diff. put a gauge on it. Along with an exhaust brake, it's recommended to put in 60# exh. valve springs. If you're going to travel alot, it's also nice to have a GPS.

 

[Cattletrkr]

Along with an exhaust brake, it's recommended to put in 60# exh. valve springs.

Not on 24v. Just the brake is all you need.