Pimp my LB7

[Mark Rinker]

I have, sitting on my shelf, a 2003 LB7 with <100 miles on it waiting to go into my 2001. I would like to prep this motor internally for max performance over stock, while maintaining longevity and mileage. Looking for ideas from others - what mods would you perform?

1) Decrease compression ratio?
2) Increase displacement?
3) Work the stock heads for additional flow?

Here are my plans for external improvements:

1) 4" exhaust, improved intake air flow;
2) Upgrade turbo(s?) for greater efficiency;
3) Custom +40-60hp tow tune by Kennedy Diesel (proven tune to me - powerful down low, quiet engine, cleaner oil and no smoke.) ~340-360hp
4) +60-80hp propane flow at 8psi boost when tow/haul engaged. MSD Digital system already onboard - nice smooth transitions. ~400-440hp
5) Transmission will need to be prepped to hold this stack under max towed loads of 15K#. (Currently, this power combo with a headwind and a hill can cause a limp during full power downshift to maintain groundspeed.)

Other:

1) How do I increase the efficiency of my intercooler to bring down IATs?
2) How to add more oil cooling, oil capacity?

[Kennedy]

Save your money for trans upgrades. The power is in the externals, not the internals. Put head gaskets and reseal the injector cups on the 2001 engine and keep the 2003 as a spare.

[Mark Rinker]

Damn JK you are SO practical!!! (But I am listening...)

Can I at least address IATs and oil cooling? :)

[Kennedy]

Banks makes an intercooler, Turbonetics has one in development. As for oil coolers, that is a tough call. Definitely a good idea though, but make good and darn sure you have good lines. I'd probably invest in an oil temp gauge first to see how hot it is getting.

[mark45678]

up date the water pump fan to the 06 spec unit or If I recall JK had a custom unit for sale at one time ????? the newer trucks run cooler then my old 2001 did.

[Mark Rinker]

Great ideas, thanks!