Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Which upgrade?

[mkhenry]

Not a rich man so I need some experienced help deciding the best upgrade to do next.

I plan to either upgrade the exhaust or the air filter set up. Which one will help me the most?

Presently I have the stock filter and exhaust. With a new Fleetguard air filter, I occassionally show a restriction on the filter minder when I get the boost up.

 

[JDougherty]

do both for less then $100



BHAF and Straight pipe... cheap and effective.

 

[ndurbin]

If I had to choose between one or the other I'd probably choose the straight pipe.

 

[JoshPeters]

You can get a BHAF from Cummins for around $50 if I remember right. I know of a place that you can get a very nice 4'' turbo back system for $300 plus shipping. $350... pretty cheep.





Josh

 

[mkhenry]

I'm assuming a BAHF is an air cleaner. Is it just a drop in element that goes in the original airbox?

Also, My truck was built in 5/94 so I am assuming that that funny looking bulge in the pipe in front of the muffler is the cat converter. Should I leave it and straight pipe the muffler only?

Josh, where can I look into that 4" system for $350?

 

[blacksheepdiesel]

mkhenry,



First of all, welcome to the TDR!



1. The stock exhaust is good for many more horses than stock before it becomes too restrictive. If it has the kitty go 'head and get rid of it.



2. My friend's '95 has the same engine as yours. After several mods to it the best for the dollar was the 4kGSK kit. Made a HUGE difference in driveability!



3. The stock airbox can be modified with extra holes to free it up. Do a search for lots of ideas.



4. Do you know if your governor lever is hitting the #5 correctly?



5. What is your timing? 16* seems to work real good.



6. 370 injectors make for lots of smiles!



BTW, what transmission? Is it upgraded?



Trent

 

[ndurbin]

My 94 was built 10/93 and had no kitty.

 

[mkhenry]

Trent,

I assume that my governor lever is hitting the #5 correctly but not sure how to check.

I just got this truck from my son when he bought his 98 2500 4X4 CTD and as far as I know the timing is stock (204,600 miles).

I have the 5 speed transmission, NV 4500, stock.

Don't get me wrong, my truck runs good. The TST #5 plate brought it to life and made it pull like a big block on steriods. Just wondering what next. Money is an object... married with children and grandchild and they all are living with me right now.



What does the 4kGSK kit and what doe it consist of?

Thanks.

 

[JKouzez]

on the 94 the govenor would start defueling the engine at about 2200 rpm, i would personally go for the 3k kit for only 125 dollars it has been the most noticible difference on my truck besides injectors. the 3k kit will provide fuel until about 2700 rpm. it feels like an extra 50 horses but its not it just broadens the powerband. if i were you i would do that and the straight pipe and i promise you a big smile.

 

[Wasilla Rod]

My tailpipe/muffler is rotted and I am thinking about doing the straight pipe routine but would like it to empty out at the stock location. Does anyone make a one piecer to acomplish this?

 

[Howard Durand]

I second the recommendation for the 3KGSK. It produced the most dramatic change in performance of any mod I have done.

 

[JAmos]

My Dad and I built my 4-inch system. It fits in the stock location with pretty much the stock exit point. Went to a truck parts shop and bought 3-4inch adapter, the straight pipe, 3-45 degree bends, and 1-90 degree bend. Didn't change the down pipe yet, but cost a little over $200 if I remember right. Made my own exhaust hangers with some 3/8 rod and exhaust clamps welded together. Has worked fine since last fall and sounds so much better I cant believe I waited so long to do it. Now my friends laugh at me when I detour to go through the underpass in town. They just don't get it. Then again my poor friends don't drive Dodges either.

 

[mkhenry]

Wjhere can I get the 3KGSK?

 

[JKouzez]

www.piersdiesel.com

 

[BGDUMMY]

No Kitty and GSK

I would get rid of the CAT and buy the GSK.

You will be very surprised!!

 

[mkhenry]

I will probably get the Warp Speed 4" turbo back exhaust system and the BHAF from Fleetguard. The 3KGSK is on the wish list also. Does anyone make a mounting bracket for the BHAF like the ones for the AFE air filters? I don't like the idea of mine just laying there. Also, I am looking for a place to get a turbo heat shield. Larry B's does not offer one for my turbo.

I thought when I got rid of my small block chevy that I would be through with hot rodding up a vehicle but once you start on this CTD, you just can't quit.



Thanks to all of the knowledgeable and friendly folks that replied. I am looking forward to the day when I can be of help to a newbie.





__________________

1994 3500, TST #5 plate, KDP tabbed, Di-Pricol EGT and boost gauges, Bestop extendable towing mirrors (in case anyone is interested in their quality)

 

[JKouzez]

i would still strongly recomend the gsk you will be very happy