Help me prioritize upgrades!

[snowdust]

Hey guys - I am looking at buying an 08 Duramax finally so I have been reading up on mods. I couldn't find a real general area to post, so I'll start here. I know for sure I want new tires and wheels along with a tune. Picking a set of tires and wheels was much more complicated than I expected, but I think I have it narrowed down. Here is my list of planned mods in order. Let me know if you see any oversights or have any suggestions. (I'll add my signature soon)

1. Shock extensions and raise current torsion bars til there is ¾ in gap between upper control arm and top out pad
2. 18x9 rims with 285x65x18 Trail Grapplers
3. EFI Live with tune from Idaho Rob
4. Transgo Shift Kit
5. Full exhaust

I believe the first 4 are what I will do right away. Would you guys agree these are the next steps to take in order?

1. EGR Delete
2. Lift pump


I don't plan to beat the truck, but definitely want more power over stock. I don't plan to open up the motor or trans either. Thanks for any help!

 

[Burn Down]

Welcome!
Your list looks good but add at least a Transgo shift kit to the trans at the same time as you do EFI LIVE, your trans will thank you for it. The rest looks pretty good might bump the lift pump up a couple spots. Hp is addictive good luck!

 

[whitetrash21]

X2..... what Albert said. Looks like a good progression.

 

[snowdust]

Thanks for the heads up on the shift kit. I have read for hours and for some reason not come across that. For less than 100 bucks and it looks like just the pan can be dropped.. It is a no brainer.

 

[Dirtymaxx03]

i would go ahead and get the full exhaust to begin with. And i would also get a lift pump before an intake for sure. The factory intake on your truck is actually a good unit and is good for 500rwhp. And the transgo jr is a good idea. The transmission in OEM form can handle a 100hp tune all day. With the shift kit people are getting away with 130+hp tunes perfectly fine. Plus, its cheap and good peace of mind. Other than that your list is spot on

 

[snowdust]

I edited the original post to reflect your feedback. I appreciate the help. You can only read for so long before you want someone to confirm what you think you know. A lot of great information on this site! :thumb:

 

[Texas Chevy]

If its the 08 then I would do the exhaust first cause your truck is dpf equipped and will clog it very quick also the tip of the exhaust you will have soot comig out of everywhere