I just bought my first diesel. She's a 1996 QC 250 short bed with auto trans. The previous owner put the aftermarket downpipe on it, a k&n filter and a superchips chip. The chip is so old nobody in the state can tell me what its program level is? Apparently it's the first generation chip. Should I scrap the chip for an Edge Evolution? What modifications can I make for more boost. The boost gage doesnt even show boost unless I really lay into it. Then it only goes up to about 12psi? If I drive normal it doesnt show any boost at all?

 

i made the mistake of buying an edge. if you are going to get a different chip get TW, DP tunner, or PHP. other mods include but not limited to: 6637, CCV, exhaust, guages, injectors, turbo (other than stock), 140v idm, built E4OD, and the list goes on and on and on, but the fact of the matter you had better have deep pockets if the PMS bug gets you. And it will. oh another good mod that i can't believe i left out is an intercooler. you've also got things like TC lock swith, epbv brake, convert to rear disc brakes, electric fuel... ... ...

 

This is my first diesel?? I have no idea what any of those stand for? Pretend I'm retarded

 

Cowmilker gave you a real good start. Maybe I can help you understand what he was talking about
As far as chips, TW (Tony Wildman) DP, or PHP. I have the TW and I like it alot, its custom burned specifically for YOUR truck and the mods done to it, unlike your superchips,
6637 is an intake, if you do a quick search here, you will find all the info needed on it. It's not pricey at all either.
CCV- Crank Case vent
Exhaust- you said you already have a downpipe so thats good. Now ditch the cat and muffler!!

Those right there would make a good start.
And as far as your boost gauge, thats normal. Mine shows no boost unless I get into it.

 

here is a real good place to start, it is a great place for some easy quick mods and it will help you get familiar with how your truck works, as far as the edge goes, NO!! alot of folks have had problems with the edge, you are better off to stick with your superchips until you decide which chip you would like to buy

Tips - Idea - Hints

and welcome to FTE!!!

 

Personally if I were in your shoes I would get rid of the K&N the very FIRST thing. PERIOD. Get a 6637 airfilter from fleet filters . com or you can get it at NAPA but they get around $40 for it.

Get a 4" exhaust system. I see you already have the DP and that is good but you need rid of that cat.

As you can see now what you want to do is open that thing up and let her breathe in and out unrestricted as possible.

Now you can get a chip. I have a TW and absolutely love it. You should see around 25 psi boost with just the chip. You can see TW's website here:
http://www.totaldieselperformance.com/

I also see you have a boost gauge. Do you have a pyrometer. (exhaust gas temperatures) If not you will need one, especially if you will be towing.
Which reminds me, you also need to upgrade that trans cooler before you do much towing.

Now the next step... Injectors aka. sticks. This is where you will feel most of your power come in. Alot of people, including me, got our sticks from DZL_JIM at Rosewood Diesel, aka DIY-injectors . com.
Here is a link:
DIY-Injectors.com

The steps keep going higher and higher with intercooler, turbo, etc. etc.

Most mods you do are supporting mods. The cooler supports the bigger injectors by keeping the egt's cool and so on.

I would start with the first two to four lines I just posted above and go from there.

 

Hey there Blue! Welcome to the best Ford forum! Do what Neal said. I would get the pyrometer at the same time as the chip. I'm still running a 1705 superchips, but will be upgrading before too long. The DIY stage 1's from Rosewood are cheap and easy. Well worth the money. That'd be my suggestion after the gauges.
Neal, does TW reburn for additional mods???

 

He sure does