I just picked up my new 5th wheel trailer, which comes in at 17,000 lbs loaded. The cummins had no problem towing it across country the other day, but steep hills were a slight challenge. I tried to keep aware of overloading the engine with too much heat, but wished I had an exhaust temperature gauge. I'm going to be doing much traveling/towing with this thing and just want to make sure I protect this engine as much as possible. Does anybody have any advice as to which gauges I should use to prevent overheating or causing internal damage? I have a 6 speed manual, so the transmission should be all set.

Also, I'm thinking about the Banks exhaust system to give me more power to haul this much weight, and possibly a new computer chip, and/or air filter modifications, but I don't want to compromise the longevity of the engine. I want this thing to last a long time, so I don't want to take any life-expectancy away from it by beafing it up too much. I heard the Banks exhaust system doesn't reduce the life of the engine at all. Any suggestions?

Thanks.

2004 1/2 Dodge 3500 Dually, Cummins diesel, 4x4, 4 Quad-cab, 6 sp. manual, 8ft bed.

Trailer: 2005 DoubleTree, 38 ft., 18,500 G.V.W.R., 5th Wheel

 

First, fill out your sig so we know what you have. Second, Banks is good stuff, but way over priced (my opinion). With a completly stock truck, your less likely to hurt it. But towing 17,000lbs through the mountains, gauges are a very good idea.

 

You are on the right track. the exhaust and air filter bods will only help the longevity of the motor as it helps it breath more(you can also chip it from there and be safe ) for making those hill pulls less challenging.

as for gauges to watch id got with the pyro/boost/fuel pressure maybe, no need for trany temp sinc eyou have the manual.

should get you going and make the tow alot better for ya! jiMMy