Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) TST Power Kit

[JamesPhillips]

As a new member, I would first like to thank TDR for such an informative web site and secondly thank everyone who has responded to my posts. Everyone seems to be very knowledgable and helpful.

I have a 96 2wd 2500 extended cab with 125K miles. I recently rebuilt the automatic transmission (stock), have added a K&N air filter and replaced the muffler with an elimination kit from Geno's. I'm looking for a little more giddy up when pulling my 5th wheel. I'm considering the TST Power Kit and would like to know if anyone else has added this to their truck and what their experience has been. For < $250, this looks like an easy installation and a safe way to get some added power. I understand that with the added power, one should be careful not to drive the truck too hard as it could do some damage to a stock setup. Like I stated, I'm just looking for a little extra power when pulling the camper.



Thanks,



James Phillips

 

[mikel]

I just added a plate to mine and I couldn't be happier. Running the stock auto you'll want to be a little more conservative than I was, probably a #8 or a #10, but I'd check into it a little more and be sure that the stock auto can take it first.



It's amazing the amount of power you can get from that little plate.

 

[gitchesum]

Mike,

I take it you like that #4?



Sorry I missed ya Saturday. You might have seen the traffic coming back up I-45.

 

[#crnxr]

Welcome to the TDR James. Everyone starts out by saying "I just want a little more. . . " It sounds like we have the same trucks, so I hope this input is helpful. I recently had the #10 TST kit installed, along with bigger injectors and the 3K Governor Spring Kit. I have been really happy with that plate, although I can't use all the power with the stock transmission. The power curve is very smooth with no sudden power bands or drop offs. My EGT's have stayed under 1100* pre-turbo even with the injectors and GSK. Boost max is about 28-30. Adding some gauges first would be a good idea, and since you're towing you may want to consider all 3 (boost, EGT, transmission). If you rebuilt the transmission with stock components you'll probably have to take it easy.



-Kyle

 

[Forrest]

The TST kit is by far the cheapest $ for hp/torque increase. And when you factor in the install time, makes it even better.



Check out this link. It has all the plate #'s associated with year/transmission. I'd call TST & PDR with follow up to what plate you should use on a stock transmission.



http://www.piersdiesel.com/CamPlate.htm

 

[mikel]

gitchesum,



Sent you a PM, don't want to hijack this thread. I will sum it up with though.



Mike

 

[JamesPhillips]

Thanks for all the advice. I'll consult with TST before installation. It looks like the #10 plate will be compatible with the stock transmission as long as I don't drive too hard. My main objective is to gain a little more power on hills when pulling my 5th wheel. And without tearing up the transmission I just had rebuilt. I removed my muffler last night and replaced it with the muffler elimination kit from Genos. I like the new sound better but it still isn't loud enough. I think the cat has to go as well. Hopefully that will make it a little louder. I do notice more black smoke without the muffler. Is that normal?



Thanks,

James

 

[mikel]

On my truck when I got it the stock exhaust was still intact. Shortly after I did the important stuff like kill the KDP I took out the stock muffler and cat. My truck never smoked before or after I worked on the exhaust.



If you *want* smoke I'd say to back off the star wheel on the AFC (I think the top of the star wheel must go towards the engine) to loosen the spring. If that doesn't get you enough smoke then you can slide the whole AFC housing forward. You'll have to play with it a little to get the smoke where you want it.



If you've got gages, why not slide the stock plate forward? It won't cost anything to try, and may give you the little kick you're looking for.



Good luck,

Mike

 

[illflem]

Good idea to add at least an egt gauge before you go jacking up the HP.

Could turn into an very expensive plate.

 

[Extreme1]

Originally posted by JamesPhillips

It looks like the #10 plate will be compatible with the stock transmission as long as I don't drive too hard.

I used to think like that, too...

Originally posted by JamesPhillips

My main objective is to gain a little more power on hills when pulling my 5th wheel. And without tearing up the transmission I just had rebuilt.

Well, you will push until you find the limit. It's too easy to do and the difference that more power makes to the truck is astounding.

Originally posted by JamesPhillips

I removed my muffler last night and replaced it with the muffler elimination kit from Genos. I like the new sound better but it still isn't loud enough. I think the cat has to go as well. Hopefully that will make it a little louder.

Ah, yes. I recall this type thinking myself. You have taken the first steps on a long, steep, slippery slope. Too bad you didn't have the trans improved when it was rebuilt, it works a lot better with an improved convertor than a stocker even with stock power. It might have even been cheaper!



The tell tale comes from the fact that you are looking for more but think you have the end in sight. 1 or 2 more mods and mine will be done too!



Welcome to the TDR, your fitting right in. I blame all the guys here for my truck truck having to be so modified. Of course, it's a lot nicer to drive now.