Community Forums

StarTraveler · 06-24-2010, 09:48 AM

To get ready to haul a 5th wheel RV I want to make a few upgrade to my truck, a 2003 RAM 3500 diesel 4 speed automatic and a 3.73 rear. I would like to add a performance chip to add a little power and help improve the mileage; I also wanted to add some gauges to monitor the vital signs during towing.

I’ve been looking at either the “Banks EconoMind Diesel Tuner & iQ” and the “Edge Attitude with CTS”, since both of these have data readout displays I won’t have to install separate gauges. Does anyone have experience with either of these and what is your opinion on them, are they worth the expense?

CD · 06-25-2010, 09:14 AM

StarTraveler
I don't know anything about the ones you are talking about but I bought the BD bcause it changes the engine timing and doesn't just add fuel like some do. I have been real pleased with it.

Albert001 · 06-25-2010, 09:37 AM

I have a neighbor placed a Bully Dog 40420 performance chip it is pricey but he states (his opinion) it added 75-100 HP and 80% more torq, with better fuel mileage and it is programmable to different settings. He runs a 3500 duly I heard him smoke the tires after he set it up and it only took him about 35-45 minutes to set-up it up.
I have been thinking about one but I have see how my 2010 HD runs and pulls my 28 ft. TT loaded up heading from California.to Indiana in a few weeks.
From a bulletin that went to GM dealers if your vehicle has a warranty problem such as engine, transmission, etc. it must be proven that the Chip caused the problem to void your warranty. I think a lot has to do you your dealer's public relations with the customers.

wa8yxm · 06-25-2010, 12:11 PM

There are only two "Chip" companies I would consider dealing with

Banks is one of them.

450Donn · 06-25-2010, 02:59 PM

While Banks is IMHO overpriced, I personally would not consider adding any tuner until you have done your due diligence. Rebuild the transmission is the first step. Do it now or later your choice. But I would rather not do it on the road. Remember , if you add HP/Torque the first thing to break will be the weakest link. Transmissions, universal joints, you name it.

Ray,IN · 06-25-2010, 06:12 PM

Adding a "chip" to increase power is the easy part. It's the things that must be added beforehand that are required for engine protection that some folks forget/bypass. More horsepower equals more heat, a diesel(heat) engine uses approximately 1/3 of that heat to produce power, the other 2/3 are dissipated through the cooling system and exhaust.
I went through the Cummins horsepower increase learning curve, before spending money the wrong way. First and most important is to increase exhaust system diameter and flow. Second is to upgrade your automatic transmission to withstand the added HP and torque. Third is to insure the cooling system is in tip-top condition.Fourth, install a good set of gauges, if you want the engine to last. Now we may begin deciding which performance enhancer best fits our desires. In 1998, when I owned a CTD, the average cost of this was $10 per HP for making improvements.
Joining the TurboDiesel Register (TDR) TDR Roundtable - Powered by vBulletin will be a great way to do it right the first time.

SuperGewl · 06-25-2010, 11:47 PM

I have all the bells and whisles that you are looking for. Check my signature for what you interested in. Yes the Banks stuff is more expensive but it does what they say and does it well. I do like alot of the BD stuff as you can tell also. I llike the BD tranny, if I couldn't get that one then I would go with the ATS Tranny.

Ray,IN has some valid points but I think they maybe out of order. If you are going to chip, then add gauges with it or first. Then Banks Econmind w/IQ comes with an EGT so thats good. It also monitors numerous other things. Yes open the exhaust up some and most definatley open the intake up. The tranny is the week point so go for it soon and don't cut corners. BD & ATS offer well built replacment Trannies. Just make sure you get them built for towing, they will be a little stiff but thats a good thing. A drop in tranny takes less time and usually has lee problems because these shops stress test them prior to sending them out.