When it comes to diesel trucks, there’s nothing quite like turning a reliable workhorse into a roaring powerhouse. At TruckMaster, we’re all about building, maintaining, and pushing diesel trucks to their limits—and having fun along the way.
Let’s dive into the extensive list of mods that transformed my 2013 GMC Sierra into a high-performance machine. Along the way, we’ll talk shop with Ryan from Ryan’s Diesel Service, explore common issues with popular diesel engines, and even take a detour to admire the quirkiest “truck” in the garage—a 1996 Lincoln Town Car.
The Build: Turning Potential into Power
From the ground up, this truck is loaded with upgrades designed to improve power, performance, and durability. Here’s the breakdown of what’s under the hood and beyond:
- EFI Live DSP5 Switch: Enables on-the-fly tuning for different driving conditions.
- HSP Air Intake Kit and Y-Bridge: Enhances airflow for improved efficiency and power.
- 68mm Street Turbo by Ryan’s Diesel Service: Custom-built for serious performance gains.
- 60% Injectors (Bitterroot Diesel): Deliver increased fuel for maximum output.
- FASS Titanium 150GPH Lift Pump and Fuel Sump Kit: Keep the fuel system primed and ready, ensuring consistent delivery under heavy loads.
- MBRP 3-inch Turbo Downpipe: Reduces exhaust backpressure for faster spool times.
- PPE Race Fuel Valve and Ported Fuel Fitting: Optimize fuel flow for peak performance.
- PPE Stage 5 Built Transmission: Handles the extra power without breaking a sweat.
- Pro-Comp Suspension Lift Kit (6 inches): Provides clearance for serious off-road adventures.
- 22×14 Anthem Instigator Wheels and 35×12.50R22 Delinte Tires: Complete the aggressive look and enhance off-road capability.
Inside the Garage: Chatting with Ryan
During the build, I visited my good friend Ryan at Ryan’s Diesel Service. His shop, located in the heart of Duramax country, sees a steady stream of GM pickups rolling through the doors. Ryan shared his insights into common issues with Duramax engines, from electrical gremlins in LOYs to misunderstood emissions systems in LMLs.
For those worried about CP4 failures in LML Duramax trucks, Ryan had some reassuring words: “It’s an over-exaggerated issue. We’ve only had a handful come through the shop with serious CP4 problems in the last year.” He stressed the importance of proper maintenance, like using quality DEF fluid and ensuring regular active regens to keep emissions systems running smoothly.
What’s Next for the Truck?
With the current setup, the goal is to hit 650 horsepower to the rear wheels while keeping the truck fully emissions-compliant. Ryan’s team is fine-tuning the turbo setup and collaborating with PPI on switch-on-the-fly tuning to squeeze every bit of power out of the L5P Duramax.
As emissions regulations continue to evolve, builds like this show that big power and environmental responsibility can coexist.
Join the Diesel Revolution
This truck build is a testament to the endless possibilities of diesel performance, and we’re just getting started. Whether you’re looking for advice on mods, tackling repairs, or just enjoying some good old-fashioned shop talk, you’ll find it all on TruckMaster’s YouTube channel.
Subscribe today at youtube.com/@TruckMaster for weekly uploads packed with tips, tutorials, and epic builds. For all your truck part needs, check out truckmasterdiesel.com.
Until next time, keep wrenching and enjoy the ride!
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