... I don't even know what generation CTD I have. I do know that it's 2004.5, 5.9 HO, but not certain it's a 600 series or what

Anyway, I got a start here:

• Superchips Flashpaq $379

• Air Raid MIT ~$40

• Air Raid air filter ~ $35

• "Bypass surgery" on the catalytic converter ~$80

Into her about $524 so far

... So, what would be the next investment to improve performance further without going crazy?
Thanks in advance ...

 

A 3rd gen, 600 by my count.

Take the baffles out of the intake tube and ditch the turbo ring - notihng but sounding really cool. Get a FASS lift pump, some gauges (esp. fuel pressure since you already bought your programmer!) and do a muffler replacement and you'll be laughing.

Enjoy.

 

How crazy is crazy? If you can allocate $700, do a FASS or Airdog. Engine will run smoother and give the CP3 extra fuel for the Flashpaq mod.

 

definately get an aftermarket lift pump and guages, just the FASS HPFP will run you about 500 thats the one without the filters, Dieselmanor.com has good deals on ISSPRO guages thats what i would do, about 380 for them

 

My only suggestion for your next mod is Gauges. Egt, Boost and Pyro. We have gauge packages that fit your needs for around $350 depending on your gauge preference.

 

... Pardon my naiveté, but just how do gauges improve performance?

I am however intrigued with this "boosted fuel pump" angle - That makes sense to me, "More oil = more fire"

 

well guages wont give you any performance, but once you start bombin your truck you need to keep an eye on whats goin on under your hood. if your egt's get too high you can melt down your engine, turbo etc. if you get too much boost you can blow a head gasket(see IC smoke's post). this shouldnt happen with the mods you have but you WILL want more and thats when its definatley time to get guages.

But yes do get the lift pump either FASS, or Airdog seems to be the favorites.

 

Ok, well, you will get told this eventually so here goes...

The Cummins is a great motor. The Dodge fuel delivery system sucks ***. No fuel, no go. Get gauges you will know what you are doing for a baseline as well as to determine if something goes wrong. This should ALWAYS, ALWAYS be done before a programmer or chip or you will live to regret it.

 

... As much as I trust you guys and your wisdom and experience, I'm still apprehensive (not to be mistaken for not wanting them) about gauges

Meaning, what am I supposed to do if I read excessive values under stress - just throttle back? (isn't it too late then?)
Is it really that elementary? And am I really past that margin with with what I've BOMBed so far? If so, I'd surmise that the Bully Dog or FASS pump would nudge me way over the line - but "Whadda I know?"

Thanks in advance, men ...

 

The full AirDog (with filters) is just over $500 I believe. http://www.pureflowtechnologies.com/

Im not really knowledgeable on third gens, but I think that not all 3 rd gens are the 600 series. If its a 600 u should have a 600 on the valve cover.