A friend has a 97 3500 that she uses to pull a 6+ horse trailer. It runs OK, but doesn't have much grunt off the line, especially when the trailer is hooked up. It has about 115,000 miles. She asked me about a "tune up" for it, but I don't know what is needed on that particular truck. She had the tranny rebuilt last year and is still getting over it, so she doesn't want to do bombing that might cause more transmission problems.

She won't shell out the cash for one like mine either.

The '04 is my first diesel, so I couldn't help her much.

Any suggestions appreciated.

Bud

 

Not much to do but change the fuel and air filters and adjust the valves. Maybe have the timing checked if you can find a competent shop.

 

With 115k I'd replace the starter contacts before they fail and cause expensive damage. Also replace the fuel overflow valve since they tend to weaken causing low fuel pressure and power. For added low rpm kick do a search here for starwheel and turn it up.

Starter contacts> http://www.fostertruck.com/dodge/default.htm
Overflow valve> Marty @ 888-734-7349

About $35 for each item

 

What they said, plus a straight-through muffler and getting rid of the cat. convertor would also help the engine breath better.

 

When taking off with a load she may be experiencing the loose torque converter performance that is common with a stock setup.
If that is the case ... more power would be of little use until after the TC locks up.

Backing off the AFC star wheel will help give better throttle response and reduce turbo lag.