2003Ram

Upgrading from my HE341 to the HE351 (with a Wicked Wheel II).

What methods work best to remove the turbo mounting studs/nuts, especially the two closest to the block? Can they be reached from below?

I have been soaking them with PB blaster for a couple of days.

sr4440

i took out the inter fender well when i did mine, makes it pretty easy to get at.



Joe

FastTaco

I pulled the drain tube out of the block, took out all manifold bolts and removed it all together. Bolt new turbo to manifold and be sure to put drain line back on before installing. Its a PITA to get on after. Then install all back in.

john40

Years ago, PB Blaster worked quite well on my '98 12v. The only suggestion I have is to keep on soaking.
John

2003Ram

Got it done today without removing the exhaust manifold. - full day

high bid

How do you like those sulastic shackles? Big improvement?

Asher

Was the swap worth it? I am suspecting that I will be heading down that road soon since I have the tranny side taken care of now.

2003Ram

The Sulastic shackles does make the ride somewhat nicer, but it is still a truck. I also have my tires (BFG 305's) aired down to around 40 psi for daily driving.

2003Ram

My initial impressions with this are good. The truck pulls stronger throughout the rpm range of 2000 - 2700 or so. I don't think it is any quicker, but did get to 90mph on a WOT run more easily if that makes sense.

If you have an HE351 or can get a pretty good deal on one, I say go for it.
I made it a point to stick with "stock" turbo to avoid any issues with smog in California since the biennial check is pretty much a visual.

I won't be able to really gauge the improvement until I get my trailer hooked up and put it to the test on some hill driving.

Asher

Thanks, I'm right with you... After my tranny build the truck seems to run out of breath in the upper rpms, before the rebuild I really didn't know because I was slipping too much..

I also still have the stock fueling supply and I am sure that's some of the reason, but I am not sold on any of the aftermarket solutions (for long life) except maybe one of the mechanical set-ups... I am just reluctant to put push anymore fuel into the motor without putting some more air into the mix.... I'm not looking for a race truck, just a little quicker and better passing power when towing my jeep (7k ish)...

cLAYH

On my 2003 I noticed a quicker spool up and a reduction in EGTs.