Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) VP44 How much can it take

[MMeilicke]

I am thinking about adding HP. How much of an increase in HP can the VP44 safely take? I have the HO 245 HP engine with the stock clutch. Also, how do test the VP44 to see if it is working correctly and up to specs? Posssibly you can refer me to the s web site which address this issue.

 

[CumminsAholic]

It'll take more than your clutch will. Safely? I don't know if anybody really knows that. Alot of pumps make huge power for a long time, some pumps fail with no increases in power. Most of the pumps that failed were on the 98. 5 trucks though and/or they had a bad lift pump. I'd say with your truck you can "safely" add more power than your clutch can take. I'm not sure what the stock clutch will hold, maybe somebody with a manual transmission will chime in.

Corey

 

[Gary - K7GLD]

"I'm not sure what the stock clutch will hold, maybe somebody with a manual transmission will chime in. "



Seems I heard somewhere around 700 ft. lbs. torque for the stock clutch on the HO engine - I know mine did pretty well for nearly 20,000 miles, but with a bit over 700 ft. lbs. at the rear wheels, the clutch can be made to slip rather easily - and will now even slip on the lower Comp settings if I get too aggressive with the loud pedal...



SBC, here I come...



As I recal, the VP-44 will support somewhere in the neighborhood of 650 HP with reasonable reliability - certainly a few have gone higher - I'm sure someone will show up with more accurate info...