Automotive technology has brought diesel vehicles to the forefront of heavy duty performance. It is not uncommon to find three-quarter ton diesel pickups racing alongside American muscle cars at drag strips across the country, as diesel vehicles prove that along with their brawn comes lots of potential for added power. A wide range of diesel performance products give owners the ability to customize a vehicle to produce additional horsepower and torque for as little, or as much, money as they like.
Evaluate the type of diesel vehicle that you are seeking additional power from. Vehicles produced after the mid 1990s are typically electronically controlled, while older model years often feature mechanically controlled features. Understanding how the fueling systems of the diesel vehicle work will help determine the best performance parts or adjustments.
Provide additional fuel to the motor by purchasing and installing a computer programmer or chip for newer diesel vehicles. Programmers will allow you to adjust the fueling and timing of a vehicle by simply plugging into a data port inside of the cab. Older diesel vehicles may receive additional fuel by simply adjusting the stock fuel pump. Add parts like aftermarket injectors and performance fuel pumps to provide increased fuel flow without putting strain on factory parts.
Inject extra air to help burn off the extra fuel within the cylinders by selecting performance parts that facilitate additional airflow. Aftermarket air filters will help provide additional cool air to the motor, helping to burn extra fuel and increase horsepower. The addition of larger, or twin, turbos will help reduce exhaust gas temperatures while providing additional horsepower and boost.
Equip the vehicle with power train components that are capable of handling the additional power produced by the addition of aftermarket performance parts. Upgraded transmissions will ensure that new found power doesn't ruin the vehicle's ability to shift, while reinforcing drive lines and suspension components is a smart choice to avoid component failure caused by the increased stress of additional power.
