Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Upgrade questions for newbie, LP & VP44

[gahorn]

Well, after reading a lot of posts from members with lift pump and injection pump failures; I find myself in the same boat. I have had my truck for 6 years and never had a problem. In March the truck started hard starting and blowing white smoke. I was told the lift pump was shot and needed replaced. My first mistake was not taking the time to do the work myself and had it done by the dealership. They relocated the lift pump to the fuel tank stating this was an upgrade recommended by Dodge. Thinking everything was OK, my son and I headed south to Florida to watch some Baseball Spring Training games. During our time down there, I experienced the "dead pedal" one or two times. I didn't have any more issues until beginning of July. Now it happens two or three times a week. I did the key off-on to get the codes (P1693, P0216, P0234). I know I need to replace the VP44 so I need some help so I don't have to do this again soon.

1) My first thing is to get a complete set of gauges. I have seen posts

about guys installing fuel pressure gauges before the fuel filter and after.

Should two fuel pressure gauges be installed or one? If one, where should

it be installed?

2) Should I replace the stock in-tank lift pump with an after market setup? If

so, what type of setup if I plan on doing some mild to moderate hp

increases? FASS/Airdog or keep stock lp and add pusher? :-{}

3) Replacing the VP44 - go with the stock replacement or one of Hot Rodded

or more expensive "improved" units? :{

4) After getting the fuel system up to par, in what order should other

improvements come; such as exhaust, electronic fuel control, etc? #@$%!

5) Edge Product with or without Smarty or TST with or without Smarty?



I know this is a lot of questions, but I really appreciate the help. I know I'll probably have to provide more info, but will wait for your guidance. :-laf

One other thing not related to the above. I live out in the sticks and some critter got up in my engine compartment and shredded the insulation attached to the underside of the hood. Is there any place on the internet that sells replacement?



Thanks, Gary Oo.

 

[SnoKing]

I will answer a few of the questions. One fuel gauge post filter is fine. I got my VP44 from Midwest Fuel Injection. No core charge unless you fail to return the old one. Fill out your signature so that we know more about your truck. SNOKING

 

[gahorn]

Snoking - Thanks for reply. I filled in the signature line
Is there any advantage to the upgraded VP44 over the stock one? Another question I have, after replacing the VP44 should I upgrade or replace the lift pump that has been relocated in the tank?
Thanks for the help

 

[SnoKing]

Snoking - Thanks for reply. I filled in the signature line

Is there any advantage to the upgraded VP44 over the stock one? Another question I have, after replacing the VP44 should I upgrade or replace the lift pump that has been relocated in the tank?

Thanks for the help

After gauges, I would do a custom transmission before adding power. My preference is in my sig line. I will not try to address the LP issue. I have a Geno's/Vulcan relocation kit with stock lift pump and have good fuel pressure. I know some have bypassed the intank pump with Vulcan draw straw.



SNOKING