2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Where to start???

[DBeeman]

My Ram is no longer under warranty, it is bone stock, has about 13K miles on a new VP44 installed under warranty. I am trying to figure out the best way to add a fuel gauge, I have an electric one I ordered from Geno's, going to get the steering column mount, and I am thinking about the fuel cap mount. Next comes a new fuel delivery system. Then I will be saving my $$ for a beefier automatic transmission and torque converter, as I don't really trust the stock one if I do power mods, which I want to do. I also want to add a 4" exhaust. It is going to be tough to find the money to do what I want to do, and I want to do it in a logical order, so other than the fuel gauge, what should the priorities be?



Dave

 

[Jeff Knight]

The order that you talked about them is a good way to go. I would also add a boost & pyro gauge with power mods. With 3 gauges you might want a 3 gauge pillar mount... Jeff

 

[DBeeman]

Thanks, trying to decide between the FASS replacement lift pump, or the full up FASS system.

 

[Dodoro]

Hey Beeman, I installed an electric fuel press. gauge from Geno's also. I put it in the cubby hole in the dash. The entire process was pretty simple to do. I did the FASS pump ( no filters ) I connected the fuel gauge to the VP instead of the filter top. I wanted to knowwhat pressure the VP wasreceiving vs. what pressure the filter had. If you do the full system you will probably not use the factory filter. I have never seen the pressure under 12psi. And I have NEVER had a REALLY DIRTY filter, nor have I ever had water in the system. The stock muffler outlet had rusted thru and I put on a 4" stainless system with muffler ( not the fancy polished kit ) That was a tough job. A deeper note without being too loud. ( all of my neighbors know when I'm near the house already ) As for the Trans. I have 241800 miles. I use it 10. 5 months out of the year in my Lawn Care / Landscaping business. My engine is stock, and I am 10500 gross ( truck / trailer - mowers ) everyday.

I just had my 3rd Transmission Hiccup. I have put in 2 Shift Solenoids / 2 Shift Transducers. Last week the front band wedge came loose. I could not find any signs of damage or wear for that matter. Put her back together and all is good. So depending how you will drive / use your truck. How you modify your truck. That will determine what you need to do in order to keep up with power demands.



I did all of my own installs, but here is an idea of what I spent.

Fass - $425

Gauge - $60 - $70

Exhaust - $425

Power gains - ???????????????

Fuel economy gains - ??????????

Reliablity - PRICELESS

Hope this helps some.

Dave

 

[DBeeman]

Thanks again, I doubt I will be doing any serious power mods, but I would like to add an Edge, Bully Dog, Banks, etc system (whole bunch of research there). That is some good news about the transmission, I have had to replace a shifting solenoid already. I know it is not the section, but would a new torque converter increase the reliability of the stock transmission?

Dave

 

[SnoKing]

You really need four gauges. transmission output line temp, Boost, Pyro and fuel pressure. Why not the Edge box with the digital gauges included. You do not have to tap the injection pump wire. Just run it as a timing box(Edge EZ mode). I have an Edge Comp but have never tapped the pump.



Unless you are towing heavy, the exhaust will not make much difference until you are above 350HP or something like that.



A good custom transmission is equal to any single HP upgrade, as it allow you to really put the power to the ground.



I spent a lot of money on a custom DTT transmission because I tow and wanted an exhaust brake.



So the list:

1. Gauges

2. Timing box

3. transmission

4. Injectors

5. Turbo and Exhaust (do this and the same time, as it will save some work and redo's)

6. Intake



Most stock auto's will take one upgrade but not two.



Start down the list and stop for money or satisfaction at any point.



There are a couple drivability things that you can also do. 3rd gen track bar and DSS steering box brace.



SNOKING

 

[DBeeman]

Thanks again, I am hopeful to be able to start this ball rolling in the very near future. I am hoping to increase the efficiency of the Cummins as it is my daily driver. I was averaging 19. 4mpg for a while driving both highway and in town, but find my foot buried in the pedal more since I switched jobs in July and have to deal with a lot more traffic.

Dave