I just purchased an 07 5.9. What's really needed when it comes to gauges? Also wanting to roal a little coal but also gain some horsepower/mpg so which programmer is best for that? I've done a little research and it looks like a smarty jr. might be the best but not sure yet. I also plan in the future to purchase a cold air intake. Truck has 172k miles. No mods done to it except a new exhuast and tip. Not sure what size it is though. Thx. Any help is appreciated.

 

Hello,

as far as the programmer, the Smarty jr is solid. Ideal for a new to diesels type of person. It was designed around an otherwise stock truck in mind. EFI live is the best overall programmer, but to get full use from it, especially for the price, truck modifications are necessary.

As far as the gauges go, opinions vary on the typical 3 gauge setup. The most important is EGT. Be sure it is mounted pre-turbo at the collector. Next would be tranny temp gauge. Especially with the mileage on yours presently. This is best mounted on the output line between transmission and radiator. Worst place for temp accuracy is in the pan.
After that is when people differ. Some prefer a fuel pressure gauge (measuring fuel pump pressure) or even a fuel rail gauge (measures fuel pressure from the injection pump or cp3) while others opt for the turbo boost gauge (measures intake manifold pressure, or the amount of boost the turbo is providing).

A cold air intake has been found to be rather pointless. The stock system is more than adequate. Save the money for your gauges which are far more important/useful.