Hello everyone I’m new to diesels and was just given a 1997 ram 4X2 with a 12v Cummins with an automatic. It has 255k on it but still runs great. I need some recommendations I want to lower it and get some more Power out of it but with 255k on it will it handle a boost in power? If so what do I need to do get more power please be patient I am a diesel noob. Thanks for the help.

 

well first you need a new front axle. one with a driveshaft. and then you need a transfercase for the transmission.

 

my cummins has 318000 and still running really strong i do have a new tranny and clutch but so far i have got the head oringed and studed then got it pumping some more boost and have the fuel plate moded and the gov spring turned to where i can run more rpms but im going to do a 4k rev spring kit soon but i wont run it over 3k rpms because it will start to float the valves, so not long after that im looking at new valve springs and retainers. those are just the start of the mods im doing but like you i am new to this world as well. hope i was of some help. just remember once you start to cank up the horse power you will need a new clutch soon cause with just a fuel plate mod if you put it to the floor in 5th it can slip the clutch with ease.

 

first two things that you MUST do before anything else is replace the drag links and trac bar this fixes death wobble. Then get the tranny built up to hold I'd say 600 hp or however high your final goals may be.