Just need a bump!

derailer · 10-21-2007, 08:14 PM

Hello everyone,

I am new to duramax diesels (ex-cummins owner) and have a question. I have a 2006 chevy 3500 with a manual 6 speed.

My question is: Is there a package that I can put together for my pickup that can allow me to do the following?--> gain hp without having to add guages (I stare at them enough in my big trucks) or de-rate the chip before towing.

I would like to keep things simple and reliable with the capability of pulling 25,000 gcw+ up a hill, throttle on the floor, without melting anything.

Please keep in mind that i'm not trying to gain every hp possible but just a little extra nudge.

I appreciate any help
Thanks

railbird · 10-22-2007, 06:45 AM

Welcome to our little corner of the world. I don't think that you will ever find a combination that will let you pull max weight up a 6% grade without worrying about EGT's. That being said, a large exhaust system, and maybe a cold air intake and programmer will give you that extra horse that you're looking for but there ain't no free lunch. At max weight there will always be a situation in which you can get it too hot. That's why you're going to wind up looking at an EGT guage if you want to make SURE that you don't overboost it or fry something. Prudence beats guts in this instance.

**Diesel Nut** · 10-22-2007, 09:37 AM

Yeah. Now, there is always the option of a chip, like the Edge, that will automatically derate the programming if it gets too hot. Now, it is possible to set the truck up to do what you want, but you are still going to need the Pyro just to insure you aren't putting the motor at risk.

I would say something like a diablo sport predator, Banks intercooler, and 4" turbo back exhaust will be a great package that will help keep your egts in check. I think with the intercooler and the exhaust you can tow on the 65hp setting safely, and with monitoring, you can most likey tow safely on the 85hp level.

**TYREBOYZ_DEMAXIN** · 10-22-2007, 10:28 AM

with the 6SP Manual you have to watch that you don't cook the clutch and it doesn't take much aftermarket HP to do it,so i would highly recommend doing a exhaust from Silverline or MBRP and this Cheap CAI upgrade for your LBZ or 06 LLY and if thats not enough do the Diablo or PPE and keep it on the first 2 settings(for your stock clutch sake)and think of the gauges as a cheap insurance on a $40k piece of equipment and not as a pest,a Boost"n"EGT's guage will do...

derailer · 10-22-2007, 06:54 PM

Hey thanks for the responses.

I can accomodate a pyro. I just didn't want to tailor my driving to the setup, but rather have the upgrades accomodate me.

So Which chip is the best choice for my application then (ppe, edge, diablo etc..)??

A 4" exhaust will definately be installed but I worry about getting rid of the cat. Won't a code be thrown? What about the cabin noise (is it noticible?)

Intake, are there any cold air intakes that filter better than stock and can still outflow? (I'm in extremely dusty conditions)

Thanks again

railbird · 10-22-2007, 07:33 PM

I am partial to the Diablosport Predator. Mainly because it does exactly what they say it should and, secondly, it's cheaper than most of the others. I'm never going to use a tune any bigger than about 65 hp anyway so I don't need anything elaborate. I had one in my 02 LB7 and loved it and I'm waiting now for them to come out with the one for the LMM. Many of the guys want a lot more horsepower than I do and are ready to fork over should they break something but I just don't need it for the loads I haul.

The exhaust probably will be a little throaty but it won't be annoying. Mine was but I kind of liked the sound. As far as the cat goes, we'll need to ask someone who has actually done it to see if it throws a code when you throw away the cat. I'll bet it does.

If you're in dusty conditions regularly, I would be a little careful about the air filter. It seems to me that you can't beat OEM for filtering. However for airflow there are several choices. That's where I would do my homework and study it. There is a WIDE difference of opinion about those.

With it all, just remember that the transmission plays as big a part as the engine when you're pumping the horsepower to it. I don't know how much the 6 speed manual will hold so you would do well to find out from a reputable source and get some guidelines. I'm an old maid about things like that. I have contributed many dollars to Eaton, Spicer, and Caterpillar over the years and I feel like I've paid my dues in cash.

**Diesel Nut** · 10-22-2007, 11:39 PM

Interior sound will be minimal. The new trucks are very well mannered on the exhaust side. As for the code, yes, it can set a code for EGR flow, but on the lower settings its only occasionally. I have a customer with the Diablosport and turbo back 4" duals straight piped and he has set the code once, and he is complaining its too quiet.

**Pat@BD** · 10-25-2007, 03:06 PM

The key thing to remember is air. The more air in and out the better it is going to run. If you are going to do the exhaust and the intake you most likely will see the EGR code occasionally. Not too much to worry about though. We have always had really good luck with the Edge Juice with attitude. You get the gauges and everything in one package. The safeties that they have built into them as well work really well. In my opinion well worth the money.

idrivebowtie · 10-25-2007, 05:34 PM

i would go with the ppe duramaximizer so you dont have to reprogram you can just turn the power up and down any time you want