TST Power Kits

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I was wondering if I could get some feedback from anyone that has installed a TST kit in their truck. I am considering installing a kit in my 96 215hp 2500 Club Cab, 4x4. Likes/Dislikes, installation problems, etc.

TIA

 

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I put one in my 97 about 2 years ago, and just love it, it made the truck so much more driveable. Mine's an auto, and only had 180 hp to start with. With the 5 spd and 215 HP, you won't notice much more with the 230 HP kit, so you might go on up to 250 or 270 & see what happens! Installation was easy, I just watched the video (included) and read the instructions... ... . DDG

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Dennis Garrett, Eudora, KS.
Locomotive Engineer/Red Ram driver!
1997 2500, 2WD, Auto, 3:54, 230 HP TST kit, K&N air filter, Aux. trans filter, Westach Combo Boost & EGT, Trans & Engine oil temp gauges. 3-Pos. TC lock up switch.

 

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I installed the 230/605 TST kit in my 94 two years ago and highly recommend it. Prior to installation, I would get stuck in 3rd gear for miles while towing a trailer up mountain grades. With the TST kit, I can easily regain speed and upshift after slowing for a curve.

Installation is relatively easy, requiring a hand impact driver (available from Sears and many auto parts stores) and normal hand tools. A video and well written instructions are included with the power kit. It takes about two hours for a first-timer to do the work.

While the AFC housing is removed, consider adding TST's AFC spring kit to control smoke at low engine speeds. The original spring does not adjust far enough with the TST kit installed.

I used four M6x1. 0x20mm phillips head screws to reattach the AFC housing because they are easier to install and remove than the original screws. Cummins Titanium Black paint p/n 3824514 will make everything look color coordinated.

If you have the 5 speed, avoid heavy throttle at engine speeds below 1600 rpm to prevent the well known 5th gear nut problem. The clutch should be good to 700 ft-lb according to Joe Donnelly.

The automatic needs a torque converter, torque converter lockup switch, valve body upgrade, and clutch pack upgrade if the TST kit is frequently used to tow heavy trailers.

Adding an exhaust temp gauge is recommended, but my gauge has never risen above 825 degrees in the PacBrake elbow after the turbocharger. This puts me well below the 950 maximum for temperatures at the turbo outlet.

Some photos of what is involved in the installation are posted on my web page: http://dodgeram.com/technical/diesel/more_power/power_p7100.htm

Go for it! A week after installation you will wonder why it took so long to decide.

Remember though, as Robert Patton has repeatedly reminded TDR readers: you become your own warranty! Dave

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94 2500HD 4X4 modified for off-road camping

 

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Great post Dave. I too have the 230 kit on my 96/auto and L. O. V. E. it. I am writing up a review on it, but I am in WAY over my head right now, just trying to get everything on the site working. I will also be doing an install in the very near future on the BD valve body, TC, exhaust brake and TorqueLoc.

Dave, you should have said hi while we were at the TDR Nat's, would have liked to meet you. Actually, maybe you did and I didn't know it was you?? #ad
Met lot's of folks there and had a great time.

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Rob Spading
TDR Webmaster

1996 Dodge 3500 CC, Cummins, 4X4, Loaded SLT, Mag-hytec diff and trans covers, Rickson 19. 5s with Cooper C140s, Westach pyro-boost-trans temp, etc. , etc.

 

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Most of the TDR rallies/get togethers are out West. This is prohibitive for quite a few people. I'd like to see more in the East, specifically the South. Anybody out there listening?


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1999 Dodge Ram 3500 Quad Cab 5 spd 4:10 LSD rear Mag-Hytec diff. cover Speedliner spray in bed-liner, Smittybuilt step rails
Rammin' and runnin' the roads

 

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Columbus, Indiana was only 1,000 miles from New York, Hudson vally. It is EAST of the missisippi. Might be a long way but a day drive compared to Minden,NV.

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P. Campbell 1998. 5 ISB 2500 auto green/driftwood, driftwood rickson's 19. 5's, Pro-Zap front bumper, Mag-tech diff cover etc--

 

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You bet! I'd love to go to a TDR rally, if one was held close enough for a Sat-Sun trip.
I'd bet Cummins Southern Plains would help sponsor one in Houston, Dallas, Austin, or San Antonio if asked. How about it,Robert



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Bill Lins Wharton, TX
98 2500 QC 12v NV4500 3. 54 LSD