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Duramax Diesel Hot Rod: Part Two: More Need for Speed


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Spring wrap and wheelhop hurt performance and create a potential for drivetrain damage. Kennedy Diesel equipped our truck with a set of NHRA-qualified CalTracs traction bars designed to help keep the rubber firmly planted and improve the launch. These help prevent spring wrap and maintain the pinion angle during a hard launch.

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Nitrous oxide is required to push quarter-mile performance into the 12s or better. The amount of fuel required for 600-plus horsepower exceeds the ability of 30 psi turbo-boost pressure to burn efficiently. The added oxygen provided by nitrous makes up the difference. U.S. Diesel Parts set us up with a two-stage adjustable NOx kit that can be fine-tuned to match current and future fueling requirements.



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Power modules and programmers allow for an easy power gain and competition versions can double rear-wheel power.

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The Banks Big Head turbo wastegate actuator helps raise boost pressure from a stock level of about 21 psi to approximately 30 by using a larger diaphragm, plus more spring pressure and an adjustable linkage. More air, more boost, and more fuel equals more power.



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The original half-ton rear axle had to go. The strongest rear axle available for a GM six-lug application is the 14-bolt semi-floater with a 9.5-inch-diameter ring gear. Randy's Ring & Pinion, in Everett, Washington, was given the task of rebuilding our replacement axle to precision specs using an Eaton Positraction differential, new ring and pinion, and new bearings and seals.

Related Articles

Duramax Diesel Hot Rod: Part One
The newest diesel engines and powertrains offered by GM, Ford, and Dodge have energized diesel-pickup enthusiasts and aftermarket manufacturers alike--for good reason.

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