just purchased an 01 3500 high output dually six speed. Just wanting to know what the best upgrades for me 400-500 HP and some of the downfalls of the truck? Thanks

 

First check to see if you have a 53 block. If you do and push towards the 500hp mark it could very well be a major headache for you.

Other than that to get to the 500hp mark you should....

1) Start with gauges (EGT, Boost, Fuel Pressure)
2) 4" Exhaust and a better intake than stock
3) FASS
4) Clutch
5) 150hp+ Injectors
6) TST or Edge box
7) Bigger charger (62, 64, 66, or twins)

Now for the ballpark costs.....

1) Around $400
2) At most $1000
3) Around $500
4) Around $1300
5) No more than $900
6) About $600
7) Near $1600

Total = $6300

Not too bad considering I have almost $6K in my transmission alone!

You may want to pick up a BD short shift kit too to lessen the throw of that 6 speed. It is very noticeable when grabbing gears in a hurry. Used ones can be had for under $200, that is if someone is actually willing to give one up.

 

I had my 02 3500 up to 529 hp had about 6-7k in getting it there, after rebuilding the tranny (nv5600) for the 2nd time (700 the first time and 2200 the last). and I didn't even blow my head gasket. I would have if I would have run it that way any longer though. that would have been another 2k to fix. I've now put my truck back close to stock (just a smarty) and bought me a 78 t/a and make it go fast. I'm going to use my truck to work with and play with something cheaper to break. but that's just me. go for it, just be prepared to spend some cash and suffer some down time. You could stay around 350-400 hp and not have as many problems JMO

 

Mine put 480hp I got around $3,200 in it. good luck

 

how do I tell wether or not I have a 53 block?

 

It will have a number cast in the side of the block. It will be on the driver side of the engine, just above the oil pan. I believe it is maybe kinda 6-10 inches from the front of the motor. If it is a 53 you'll see it. If you don't see a 53 then it is not. I could not find a number on mine and then looked at a guys truck that had a 53.

You could get edge nozzles and have a pump shop put the nozzles on and pop test them to make sure they have a good spray pattern for a lot less than $900. I priced out 125hp nozzles for $291 and not to sure on the cost to put on the new nozzles and get them pop tested. I think one place may have told me $25 for each injector?? I was also told you can put the nozzles on yourself then have them pop tested.

 

why is the 53 blocks undesireable?

 

Bad casting; prone to cracking

 

how much power can you get out of one safely?

 

$6.00?

That sounds like the deal of the century, or are you missing some zeros?

 

just wondering if anybody knew