Engine/Tranny setup for towing
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7th Gear
Joined: Aug 2010
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Engine/Tranny setup for towing
I have a 2005 Expy EB w/ HD tow package and would like to get some advise on a motor/tranny combo for towing my toy hauler. I currently have everything stock with the exception of a CAI and hypertech tune. The engine and tranny are still in good shape, but I really want to get more power for towing. FI is not really an option for me because the whine will not pass the wife test. Ideally I would like to build a nice 400-450 hp engine w/ a built tranny and keep as close to a stock feel as possible. Of course I would also need to pass smog in good 'ol CA. Thanks.
Postmaster
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 4,171
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From: SE Texas
Pick two:
Cheap
Fast
Reliable
Smog-Legal
It is not possible to have more than two of the above.
JL
Temporarily Deactivated
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 969
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The only way to get that kind of power from your 5.4 and still pass smog is to supercharge it. Even then, for that power level you will need to stregnthen the internals. By the time you get done spending money on you motor build, you might as well sell the Expy, take your $15k in mod money, and buy a turbo diesel truck. New ones are close to 400 hp stock. Used ones can be fairly easily modded to that kind of power.
That said, what makes you think you need that kind of power? I have towed 16,000 lbs with a stock '06 Dodge Cummins (325 hp) across the country. That truck pulled that load up every mtn pass on I70 in Colorado at or above the posted limit.
That said, what makes you think you need that kind of power? I have towed 16,000 lbs with a stock '06 Dodge Cummins (325 hp) across the country. That truck pulled that load up every mtn pass on I70 in Colorado at or above the posted limit.
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7th Gear
Joined: Aug 2010
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Thanks for the replies. It looks like my only real option with the current vehicle is FI. If I go that route am I just waiting for the tranny or diff to give out? What are some recommendations on FI? I have read some of the other posts in this forum and it seems there are limited options for the 3V engines. I watched a few Youtube videos of an Expy with FI and the whine is pretty loud from the cab. As far as getting a different tow vehicle, I really like the Expy. I have looked at trucks, or even the Excursion and IMHO they just don't compare in ride quality, comfort, and convenience. I pull a 23' 7500lb toy hauler and it does ok, but most of my trips are up pretty long grades and I am stuck in 2nd gear or sometimes first. It would be nice if I could cruise up the grades in 3rd or lower rpm 2nd.
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