This is my first Diesel and I love it! I tow a 4 horse gooseneck trailer with a small living quarters. I would like to see if I can improve my MPG somewhat. I've talked with a lot of guys with diesels (of all kinds) and they all say the same thing... "let it breath". So I've been researching different air intake systems and exhaust systems. I actually have several questions.
1. What should I change out first, my exhaust or my breather? I can't afford to do both at the same time, so which one will give me a better chance of improving my MPG?
2. I've been looking at the Banks RamAir Intake, the S&B, and the Volant systems. There's a big difference in price, is one really better than another?
They all offer the "cold air boxes" vs the open designs that are much cheaper. Comments?
3. As far as exhaust systems go, I understand that mandrel bends are better, and I've read the treads on SS vs aluminized steel. There are just so many systems out there I really need some advice. What is a good system (single outlet) that won't break me and where should I get it?

I plan on keeping this truck for a while so I want to make some good decisions.

Help!!! Any advice is appreciated.

 

since you are on a budget, replace the stock muffler first. that thing is quite restrictive.

 

the best thing is to get AFE Stage2 intake ,Then get a Replacement muffler
by MBRP That Would be a great start

 

X2... POSTTOSHORT

 

Well here is my two cents, especially since you're on a budget.

Buy a Donaldson 51"X10" muffler with 5" inlet/outlet, a 24" piece of 4" straight pipe, and two 5" to 4" adapters, and put that in place of the factory muffler and cat. The flow numbers are really good on that giant thing, and the in cab sound is stock at all speeds.

Then cut the bottom and front out of your factory airbox, remove the plastic flap that goes between the radiator and headlight assembly so you have direct air to the hole in the front of the box, and buy a drop in filter from K&N, Summit, etc.

That will get you really good flow all for less than $250.

 

I would do an exhaust modification first, then CAI. My 2 cents.

 

I looked at that plastic flap and thought of cutting it to give more direct flow to the aFe filter but after washing my truck today I put the idea aside out of concern about soaking the filter from rain or snow coming through the grill.

Dave

 

On the air box, I plan on drilling some holes on the bottom of the stock one. Some people here did the same and no real issuse i guess. I agree on the no flap removal, that will help save the cleaning intervals with an open filter. I used to rodeo and some of the places round here get really dusty in the summer. I just bought the afe tube cause of clearance problems with the turbo and the honken intake canister. It seemed to help alittle.