1995 6.5L DIESEL TECH QUESTIONS

Thanks ahead of time for your help. I do have a few questions...

1- What are some of the best options for an aftermarket exhaust system?

2-Does someone supply a Gauge kit you would recommend (transmission temperature, Boost pressure, exhaust temperature etc..)

3- Recommendations for replacement suspension/drivetrain/steering components?

4- My next big job is replace the water pump in my 1995 6.5, I've read in the past about upgrading to a high capacity pump and adding a twin thermostat crossover. Do you recommend that, should I get a kit from an online company or use just GM parts? I have a leaking timing chain cover I would like to repair at the same time; I seem to recall an aftermarket gear drive timing set being a recommended replacement for the factory chain/ sprockets. I have read some pros and cons about gear drive. Do you still support the gear option for 2020?

5- Do you recommend something for the wastage control?

6- Headlights need replacing, any LED replacements with tested fit and proven improved lighting?

Ideally there would be a list of modifications/repairs/upgrades that would maximize the performance and longevity of these trucks that I could work towards completing, does such a list exist?

Thanks,

Peter Reemeyer Via Email

Hi Peter,

1- Aftermarket exhaust .... That depends on whether your #1 priority is saving money or having a boltin kit. Lots of 6.5 owners have sourced Duramax take-off systems, where a Duramax owner upgraded his factory system and will likely recycle (toss) his original. The factory Duramax exhaust systems all use 3-1/2" mandrel-bent tubing, that will work just fine for a 6.5, except you will need to relocate hangers and possibly shorten/add to the length. Super cheap. The next option is to buy a kit like those offered by www.bankspower.com or www. us.bddiesel.com. Banks has always offered the quietest mufflers, if that's a consideration - especially for a Suburban. The factory GM Duramax muffler is pretty quiet too.

2- Same vendors listed above for an exhaust system can supply gauges/ accessories.

3- Moog Suspension parts has always gotten my vote, if you're looking to upgrade. The parts are usually more heavily built, and they use quality components. Moog began their business catering to the rockcrawling and off-road enthusiasts, who require tough stuff. Otherwise, if not using Moog parts, stick with quality OEM domestic/european parts. Note... urethane suspension bushings can squeak. Grease them well during installation. I think Moog parts are available with either urethane or rubber bushings. See: www. moogparts.com

4- The current recommendation is to stay with genuine GM water pumps, timing chain, and the other items you mentioned. Ask for the high capacity (130-gpm) water pump produced for a 1997 or newer 6.5L diesel engine. China is pretty good at copying GM parts. A water pump made in

China is about half the cost of a GM domestic pump. The availability of the aftermarket gear drive timing set has been hit or miss this past decade. I honestly don't know who might have one in stock, but an internet search should turn one up... Related... the gear drive alternative is great for those who keep the same truck for a long-long time. The gear-drive never wears out or changing timing due to wear as the miles accumulate. The downside is cost. My recommendation is to install a new GM replacement timing chain and sprockets if you have any trouble locating a gear drive.

5- The computer in your 1995 model 6.5 diesel expects to be able to control the turbocharger boost pressure. So, when installing a mechanical wastegate actuator you'll need some sort of computer programming update to prevent trouble codes. The "Turbomaster" is as good as any for a mechanical actuator. We've written about it here before in Diesel World magazine. Contact www.usdieselparts.com for the Turbomaster.

6- I haven't experimented with the new LED lighting systems for the 1990s era trucks. Back some years ago we did install a heavy-duty relay and heavier gauge wiring kit to allow all four headlight bulbs to be lit when the High Beams were selected. That made a noticeable and worthwhile improvement in nighttime illumination. At the time, the lighting kit was available from www. dieselservices.com in Canada.

Thanks for your note. Jim