1984 Standard Cab 4x4 dually with custom flatbed and a good running 7.3 idi

James1966 · Jun 20, 2018

I want to get more top end for towing my 12klb fifth wheel. It has a T-19 4 spd. Which would be the best solution?
1) - 3" straight pipe exhaust, with a ZF-5?
2) - is a turbo even worth using on a standard transmission since I would go thru the gears so fast anyway?
Please pass on any info that might help.

bbjordan · Jun 20, 2018

3) - Turbo & ZF-5

towcat · Jun 20, 2018

Turbo, intercooler and ZF5. I'll even go as far as suggesting 4.56 gearset. these motors love to spin. I'm sure you've noticed your powerband under load is 1800-3000 rpm. there are those who argue you must do 75 mph, but there's a reason for fleetline big rigs are restricted to 65 mph. it has everything to do with the faster you go, the longer it takes to stop.
I tow mainly in kali. where 55 is the rule and cops generally look the other way to 63 mph but not much more.

Macrobb · Jun 20, 2018

Turbo, definitely. It makes a huge difference... omce you turn up the fuel limit screw to match the air available.

DrCharles · Jun 20, 2018

towcat said:
there's a reason for fleetline big rigs are restricted to 65 mph. it has everything to do with the faster you go, the longer it takes to stop.

Not everything. It also has a lot to do with the exponential increase in drag with speed. Every 0.1 mpg increase in fleet fuel economy is a substantial savings for somebody. Same reason they use computer-controlled fan clutches, trailer fairings and "tails"...

IDIBRONCO · Jun 20, 2018

If I understood the question right, you're looking for more top end speed. In that case, I'd do the ZF5 swap and stay from gears lower than 4.10. I'll also assume that since you have a one ton (probably) dually, that you already have 4.10 gears. That's ONLY an assumption. So I wouldn't change the gearing. I'd go with the turbo and intercooler as well since you've got a heavy fifth wheel to pull.

frankenwrench · Jun 20, 2018

Il second that.

1984 Standard Cab 4x4 dually with custom flatbed and a good running 7.3 idi

James1966

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bbjordan

Snow Monkey

towcat

Supporting Member

Macrobb

Full Access Member

DrCharles

Full Access Member

IDIBRONCO

IDIBRONCO

frankenwrench

overkill is under rated!

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