I'm going to ask for forgiveness right up front. I just signed on to this site. If I ask something that has already been covered or argued.... forgive me. I have a 2003 quad cab 4x4 hemi auto. I just bought a 30 ft toy hauler camper that was suppose to be designed light weight for 1/2 ton trucks. I live in Tennessee.....that means a lot of hills. My truck will only do about 60 on the average while pulling and it feels like it is in such a strain. I need a little more power. Here is my thoughts on the front end. My truck is paid for and I really like it. I only have 35k on it. I am willing to spend a little to get the horsepower I need to tow my new camper.

Here is what I have in mind. First, install headers......I already have catback duals. Next....install a comp cam with springs and push rods to handle it. Then install superchips programmer. Next is to install 4:56 gears. Then install a competent cold air system ( would appreciate any direction on this one).

I am looking for 75 to 100 extra horses. In my mind all of these mods are a lot cheaper than trading in for a diesel (which I don't want for daily driving) or for the Toyota ( which I don't want to do). Please help if you can.

 

cam alone will give anywhere from 20-50ish hp depending on how extreme it is. headers maybe about 15 hp. intake, 8 hp maybe. The gears would probably be the most noticeable, they should help with towing a lot.

 

That would be an awesome setup. Alsomy SC programmer has a specific program for hauling. Not sure if there is one for the '03 but it should. That would help.

 

I've tried to go online and figure out comp cams website......didn't have a lot of luck. I want one that is mostly set up for towing. I don't need a cam for top end. Anyone have a suggestion for towing? I understand that they have about 3 cams for the 5.7 hemi. Any help is appreciated.....thanks.

 

What would be the difference between the 4:56 gears and just running the overdrive in the off position?

 

what does the SC programmer do for you in the towing mode? Thanks for the info.

 

Hi Timbluehorse,
First 60mph is pretty good with a 30ft TH

All the things you mentioned will help.
The order might in whichthey are done, is how I would approach it.
You said you have Catback duals already, so on that note You should consider this little rule (More in more out) do the CIA first. (You may not need headers yet)
Gears will make a big differance (Tire size should be considered in the equation here)
Then the cam (one that produces some goodtoqure)
I have a SC tuner and it does have a tow/haul mode, but I would do this last. Two reasons, 1. Gears and Tire size.2. If you do install a cam SC is trying to roll outCustom tunes for Specific set ups' (SC has not perfectedthis yet)

Just my 2 cents

 

The Comp 260 is the one you probably want for low end improvement.

 

Pappy's got the order right here. You'll make the best of your money that way. After your gears you might want to stop there.

As far as the headers go here, I think the shorties might be the ones to go with (towing). Somebody correct me if I'm wrong.