The Cummins 6.7-liter engine was first introduced to the market in March, 2006 with Ram's announcement that they were reentering the chassis cab market with their 3500 chassis cab truck. The 3500 chassis cab was given a model year 2007 nomenclature (TDR Issue 52, page 118.) The 4500/5500 chassis cab trucks were introduced later (February, 2009).
Then on January 1, 2007 Ram and Cummins introduced the 6.7-liter engine to the consumer 2500/3500 market. The January introduction coincided with new emissions legislation and all Ram consumer 2500/3500 trucks made after January 1, 2007 are known as '07.5 vehicles (a mid-year produce change). Credit goes to Ram and Cummins: With the '07.5 6.7-liter engine, they were one step ahead of the competition. Not only did the engine meet the 2007 emission requirements, it also met the future 2010 requirements.
Over the past two years, the 6.7-liter engine has had its share of teething problems, mostly software and engine calibration updates (flashes). I am pleased to report that warranty problems on the 6.7-liter are now lower than those of the final year of the 5.9-liter engine that was used from model years '03 - '07. Additional good news about the 6.7-liter engine: In April of 2008, Cummins announced that it had earned the Automotive News PACE (Premier Automotive Supplier's Contribution to Excellence) Award for the 6.7-liter engine (Issue 61, page 48).
Likewise, in late 2007 the folks at Cummins worked with long-time TDR Writer and television guy, Sam Memmolo, to develop a video to explain the exhaust after treatment controls. For those of you who would like to take the vide route, here it is.
Thank you for viewing this video or reading the TDR. We hope we have entertained and educated.
By the way, if you missed my "take away," I will give you my conclusion. Ram and Cummins have developed a solid engine with a proven after treatment system. After five years in the market, how does the Ram compare to the competition? Well, just try a simple web search on 2010 Power Stroke engine or 2010 Duramax engine.
Issue 74 of the Turbo Diesel Register magazine was mailed from the printer’s facility in Greenville, SC the week of November 7 – 10, 2011. Some last minute problems with the 2012 TDR Calendar caused us to be about a week late in mailing the magazine. Please allow 10 – 14 days for delivery to your mailbox.
My experience has been that the first calendar to arrive is the one that gets put up on the wall for planning. We are hopeful that the 2012 TDR Calendar finds a place of importance in your home, office, or garage. You will want to take a minute to review the Tech Tips and product specials featured in each month of the calendar.
What else is in the TDR for Issue 74?
- As it is with every TDR magazine, you will find members helping members in our columns that are specific to the different engines and generations of the trucks. Thanks, Members, for your input!
- Exhaust gas temperature gauge evaluation by Jim Weir.
- Everything you ever wanted to know about steering, the death wobble, and replacement of suspension parts by Brent Boxall and Andy Redmond.
- What is the cost of regeneration on the 6.7-liter engine? With data from my Edge Insight digital monitor, I have computed the cost-per-mile, and it is less than you might think.
- Issue 74 contains our annual summary of Dodge Technical Service Bulletins.
- An update on the most frequent trouble codes is provided by John Holmes.
- For those of you with Second Generation trucks, Scott Dalgleish starts his up-fit as he pushes the old 12-valve engine for more horsepower.
- Joe Donnelly talks you through the steps to replace a vacuum pump seal.
And be sure to take a look at this issue's cover. This Fourth Generation truck continues to do well in the marketplace. We could not resist this photo from new truck owner, Gene Tolliver. Gene has the basics covered with his 2500 4x4, no frills ST equipped truck. With the chain saws in the background, I have to assume he is cutting firewood for the winter. Thank you, Gene, for this great photo!
As always, I thank you for your support of the Turbo Diesel Register and hope you enjoy reading Issue 74.
TDR, I just got back from my deployment to Iraq and thought it would be nice to get this posted at the Turbo Diesel Register. I know it's not a fancy background, but it would be nice to see family members with their trucks. This is my brother's and my truck. We bought them about two weeks apart. We are both in the USAF. He is stationed in Florida, and I am stationed in Georgia. Before I got to Georgia, I was in Alaska so we never got to hang out much. When we made this picture, it had been about five years since we had seen each other. We are enjoying hanging out as much as possibe now before our next deployment. ~ William Wingertsahn
Edward J. Wingertsahn (right) and William F. Wingertsahn (left)
We thank you, Edward, William, and all of our servicemen and women, for your service to our Country.
Each year we continue to be honored to receive the number of photographs we do for use in the TDR Annual Calendar. This year, as in years past, it was extremely difficult to select just twelve photographs for the calendar. To all of you who sent in photographs, we offer you our sincere appreciation you for both your time and your work. We enjoyed receiving each and every entry. Congratulations to those TDR Members whose photographs were featured in this year's calendar:
- Mark Lipfeld - January - Richard Szklany - February - Tony Redmon - March - John Miller - April - Ian Seyler - May - Seth Teichert - June - Terry Thain - July - Keith Landgraf - August - Jim Bagley - September - Brian Doody - October - Joe Clark - November - Mike Colosky, Blair Pine and David Magnoli - December
And congratulations also to those whose photographs were publised on the calendar's cover: Doug Fark, Frank Kovach, Tommy Morgan, Andy Markiewicz, Brett Bartlett, George Reese, Mark Petros, Curt Beck, Kelly Reed, Michael Hannick, Pul Mierop, Eric Owen, Bob MacDonald, Gordy Boldt, Jack Graham, and Wayne Roitsch.
Download your copy of the 2012 TDR Member Calendar. Or purchase additional color copies at the Turbo Diesel Register.
Now get those cameras back out and start working on your entries for next year!
Don't be discouraged if your your photograph was not chosen for this year's calendar. Many of your photographs will be used throughout 2012 in the TDR magazine. Be on the lookout.
Edge Products is pleased to announce a partnership with United Pullers to act as the title sponsor of the series for the 2012 season. The Edge Pulling Series will include all of United’s events held in the Rocky Mountain region. Weekend on the Edge will become an official United Pullers event in 2012 and will serve as the flagship national show within the Edge Pulling Series.
“The opportunity to partner with United provides us with numerous opportunities to support the diesel community and to participate within a growing sport together with our end users and dealers.” said Joe Dussol, Director of Marketing at Edge Products. Dussol continued, “Aligning our brand with diesel enthusiasts is a key element for our long term success. Given the proximity of United’s events in the region, partnered with their reputation in the industry, we couldn’t ask for a better group to work with.”
10 Back Issue 34, November/December/January 2001 (Industry News • Feature Article - EGT Gauge Evaluation • Baja Trip • The TDR Buyer's Guide • Chapter News, Events and Travel
Member2Member Steering Woes • Steering Woes on Second Generation 4X4
First Generation Fan Clutch Removal • Power Steering Hoses • Water Pump O-Ring Leaking • Replacing a Pinion Seal • Accelerator Pedal Vibration • Fuel Sending Unit • Oil in Coolant Reservoir • Buyer's Information • How to Remove the Rotor From the Hub? • Auxiliary Transmission Cooler • Best Coolant for My First Generation
12-Valve Engines Fuel Gauge • Erratic Speedometer • An Easy Method to Remove a Rotor • Drain the Radiator • Radiator Fan • Headlight Gremlin • Torque Plate Contour • How to Set P7100 Pump Timing • Transmission Cooler Lines • Repairing Battery Cable Terminals • Upgrades and EGT Issues • Solvent for Adjusting Timing • Engine Popping at High RPM
24-Valve Engines Engine Surging/Bucking • Replace the Axle? • Largest Injectors for Stock Turbo? • Engine Control Module/Wait To Start Light • Thermostat Housing Bolts • More Torque Convertor Intermittent Lock/Unlock
5.9 HP CR Engine Won't Run • Water Pump • 48RE "Hunting" • Coolant/Transmission Fluid Heat Exchanges • No Reverse on NV5600 • Power Steering Cap Blowing Off • Knocking in Injector Line • Choosing a Bigger Intercooler • Backlash in G56 Transmission
6.7 HP CR Insight From the Insight of the Cost of Regeneration • Codes PO137/P2A01, What To Do? • Exhaust Brake Whistle • Transmission Leak • Check Gauges and Electronic Throttle Control Light On • Noise in the Turbo Area • Engine Dying at Idle
Fourth Generation Fresh Cabin Air and a Hot Butter Knife • Integrated Brake Controller • Fuel in the Engine Oil • Lube the Cardan Joint? • Speedometer Recalibration • Website For Tracking a Truck on Order • Loose Lug Nuts and an Oil Seep • Harsh Shifting From Forward to Reverse • Factory Spray-in Bedliner Versus LineX • 4500/5500 With Urea
TDResource 2011 Technical Service Bulletins
TDReview TDR is in the (Open) House
Your Story The Continuing Story of Mr. Schwarz
Four Whaling Eye on the Ball for Thumbs on the Wheel • Eyes on Reality • Eye on the Bouncing Fuel Standards Ball • The Bigger Ball (Fuel Consumption Standards)
Motor Minded To Assume
Idle Clatter Black Oil • Fuel Dilution • Rear Axle Lube Change • The Number One Question! • Exhaust Brake, On or Off? • Check Engine Light • I Smell Fuel! • Unintended Consequences • 12-Valve Throttle Linkage
Ranch Dressing Codes, Causes and Concerns - Continued
Have Ram, Will Travel Vacuum Pump Seal Kit • The Cargo or Car-Hauler Trailer • Bosch CP3 High Pressure Fuel Injection Pump • Power Steering Pump
Back In The Saddle Fuelin' Around • Bitchin' Hitchin' and Gauges • New Wheels and Tires - Turnin' and Burnin' • 47RH Transmission Modifications
10 Back Issue 33, Aug/Sept/Oct 2001 (Industry News • Accessories Installed • Truck Repair/Problems • Feature Article: "How to Drive" • Truck A Boy Named Clessie)
Member2Member Headache in California - '98.5 Owners Beware • Third Generation Wheel Bearing Replacement • Replacement Fuel Filter Housing for '97-'99 Engines
First Generation Cab Cracks • Replacement Locking Hubs • Plastic Hydraulic Clutch Line • Engine Won't Shut Off • Water in Fuel Sensor • Towing Question • Brake Lights Come on When Depressing the Clutch Pedal
12-Valve Engines Fuel Line and Fittings at Tank • Automatic Transmission Won't Shift • Engine Oil Pressure Sending Unit • Vacuum Pump Reseal/Fiber Vane Replacement • Removing Lifters • Horsepower Potential for P7100 Pumps
24-Valve Engines Automatic Transmission Problems • NV4500 Transmission Parts • Fuel Leak • Erratic Idle After Using Cruise Control • Check Engine Light • Intermittent Torque Converter Unlock/Lock • Automatic Transmission Won't Shift
5.9 HP CR Transmission Advice • Starter Won't Operate • Coolant Leak • Odometer Reads "No Fuse" • Console Lid Jammed • No Backup Lights • Engine Won't Start • Smoke, Rough Idle, Lower Mileage • Worn G56 Input Bearings? • Testing and Rebuilding Injectors • Engine Stumbles and Dies • High Pressure Fuel Leak? • Changing Rocker Housing and Valve Cover Gaskets
6.7 HP CR Insight From the EDGE Insight • New Emissions, New Guidelines - Watch Out Aftermarket • New EGR Valve • Turbo Actuator? • Clutch Release Bearing • Vacuum Leak Sound • Cleaned the MAP Sensor
Four Whaling Trailer Braking • Trailer Breaking? • Gentle Braking • The New Comparison Math: $59,545 < $56,945
Motor Minded Got Touch?
Idle Clatter Theme: Options/Additions to Truck • Fuel Mileage • 2010 Truck Notes • More 2010 Notes • Fuel Filter Hassles • Pumping Gas • Saving on the Cost of Fuel • Alternative Fuels • What's in a Name? • Hit and Miss Converter Clutch • Lift Pump • AMP Bed Step Installation
Ranch Dressing Theme: "What Would I Do?" • Let There Be Light • Fiat and Chrysler • Industry News
Have Ram, Will Travel Selecting the Aftermarket Turbocharger System • Passenger Door Switch Channel • Bosch CP3 High Pressure Fuel Injection Pump • Power Steering Pump
Tailgating About Issue 72 • Cummins Plant Tour/Open House
10 Back Issue 32, May/June/July 2001 (Feature Article: Lube Oil Filter Expose • Installation of Accessories • Industry News)
Member2Member CLUTCH UPDATE: South Bend Clutch Makes Further Improvements to Its Street Dual Disc
First Generation No Speedometer or Overdrive • Erratic Idle Speed • Engine Paint • Throttle Linkage Repair • Fuel Leak at Fuel Filter Base • Spring Sags to the Left • W150 Frame Strength
12-Valve Engines Lift Pump Mounting Studs • Valve Stem Seals • Missing Dowel Pin • Tachometer Reads Zero, Engine Still Runs • Inexpensive Block Heater Plug Upgrade • Pilot Bearing Failures • P7100 Pump Modifications • Head Gasket Versus Boost Level • Camshaft Removal • Stock Setting for Torque Plate
24-Valve Engines Power Steering Moan When Very Cold • Exhaust Manifold Bolt • Heater Fan Motor • Source for Oilite Pilot Bushing • Fifth Gear Synchronizer Failure • Fluttering Tachometer
5.9 HP CR Engine Misfiring -Code P2149 • Diagnostic Trouble Code P2149 Repair • Fuel Injector Ticking Noise • Hot Antifreeze Odor • 2004-2005 Engine Differences • Best Year Third Generation Turbo Diesel? • Diesel Fuel in Engine Oil • G56 Transmission Girdle
6.7 HP CR 6.7-Liter Engine Report For 2007.5-2011 Engines • CCV and EGR Service • Whistling Noise • Front Differential Pinion Seal Leaking • Resetting the Oil Change Indicator • Too Many Issues with the G56?
Fourth Generation Resetting the Oil Change Calculator • Park Assist Feature on a Laramie • AFE Cold Air Box and Check Engine Light • Rear Differential Additive • '11 3500 Chassis Cab Owner Observations
TDReview The Auto Show Reports (Detroit Auto Show • Chicago Auto Show • Third: Cab and Chassis News)
TDResource Technical Service Bulletins
Four Whaling Famous Last Words • Who Will Go Light-Duty First? • Ratings Have Lost Their Shelf Life • The New Comparison Math: $59,545 < $56,945
Motor Minded Off-Route: Recalculating...
Idle Clatter 12-Valve Hard Start - Do the Homework • 24-Valve No Start - The Obvious • Rusty Pan • Correct Axle Ratio • Manual Transmission Questions • Water in Fuel - False Alarm! • Troubleshooting Trouble Codes • Brighter Headlights • 53 Block • Repair or Replace? • No Seat Heat • Harmonic Balancer • Worn Out Speedometer • Manual Transmission Service • Ran Out of Fuel on a Hill • Here We Go Again!
Have Ram, Will Travel BOOK REVIEW: The Turbo Diesel Buyer's Guide Focus on the Third Generation • Changing the Valve Cover Gasket • Fuel Filter Replacement Notes • Exhaust Brakes, An Addendum to Issue 71 • Dropped Valve Seats
TDRV Tampa RV Show • RV Battery Isolator • Trailer Wheel Bearing Service • B&W Companion Fifth-Wheel Hitch • Brake Controller Question • Tire Clearance
OK, a lot of you are enjoying your weekends and vacations - not to mention retirements - traveling throughout the country. While you are at it, consider participating in the Turbo Diesel Register's Five Points Tour.