Not Just Blowing Smoke - ATS Diesel News

Single Turbo 6.4 - Project 6.4ANNA

2012-01-27T10:15:00.000-08:00

It has begun! ATS has started on turning a Plain Jane Ford 6.4 powerstroke, into a single turbo, twin K16, tire burning powerhouse! The truck will recieve the following treatment:

SINGLE AURORA 5500 TURBO SYSTEM-ATS DESIGNED
TWIN K16 FUEL SYSTEM-ATS DESIGNED
ATS BUILT 5R-110W
HEAD STUDS
200 HP INJECTORS
AIR DOG FUEL PUMP

The truck is slated for an all out performance build to test the 6.4 platform and see what it can handle. The Aurora 5500 is a 74mm turbocharger that is capable of over 900RWHP as a single turbocharger and designed for streetable spool up and massive power. The single K-16 fuel system is good, but no where near enough fuel to keep up with the added airflow, and thus we opted to develop a twin K-16 fuel system. With the addition of another High Pressure Fuel Pump, the system is capable of 4 digit horsepower, and the ability to feed the massive 200HP injectors. Both pumps will be fed by an Air Dog Fuel pump to supply positive pressure from the tank, to the inlets of the K-16's.

The first order of business, was to make sure the head was not going to lift under high horsepower. So we lifted to cab and installed ATS head studs. These will ensure that the head gaskets do not blowout when the turbo is supplying full boost to the cylinders. Head studs are generally required anytime over 45 psi of boost is made to maintain reliable horsepower. The 200HP injectors were also installed at the same time.

Next, we turned to the factory turbos. They were removed to make way for the new Aurora 5500. For mock up purposes we used a similar sized T-3 housing. A mount was made where the factory turbos used to be, and the single turbo was installed. It fit like it was from the factory! Also, the turbo will be waste gated, and excess exhaust will be routed into the down-pipe. With the waste gate, boost and drive pressure should be able to achieve 1:1, which is ideal for peak performance, low EGTs, and maximum efficiency.

Fummins Build - Part 3

2012-01-24T07:32:00.000-08:00

The motor is officially in the truck, sitting level, and everything clears...EVEN THE AURORA 3000 sitting on top of the 3-piece manifold. All the wiring was converted over to hook up to the Cummins. It only takes about an hour to hook everything up...these P-Pumps are so dang simple!

It was definitley a tight fight getting the oil pan over the front cross-member and the valve cover under the cowl, but with a little finesse and a little persuasion, it goes in. Then after some wiggling to get it to sit straight, it was bolted down. The motor actually seems to fit relatively well, and there is a lot of room on either side of the engine to work on. The throttle cable took a little modification, but now almost looks like it was factory.

All the wires were hidden and wrapped in wire loom (Except for a few that needed to be modified so I left them un-wrapped. Also, while the engine was out, the frame was painted with 3M rubberized under-coating. After the years of Colorado roads...it needed some love too.

The Aurora 3000 fits perfectly, and has plenty of room for heat dissipation as well. There is even room for the S475 that is going to be mounted below as well. Next, I will be filling it up with oil, priming the system, set the P-Pump timing, and fire it up. Hearing that motor run will be super sweet!

Fummins Build - Post 2

2012-01-23T14:43:00.000-08:00

Finally got the motor put back together and ready to run. The new cam and valve train were reassembled, torqued, and valve clearance was set. So now after I set the pump timing, put some oil in it and hook everything up, it will be time to fire it up!

Fummins Build

2012-01-20T13:39:00.000-08:00

Here we are at the start of rebuilding a 24 Valve into a P-Pumped, twin-turbo cruiser/camper/worker/beater/fun truck (its got a lot to accomplish).

The truck started out as you see it, with a V-10 with a great sounding rod knock. I took care of that one morning by starting it up cold and throwing the fuel at it. After creating a new "Crank Inspection Hole", I started to pull the "lightweight" V-10 out, to make way for the P-Pumped 24 Valve.

First thing was to tear it down and make sure everything was looking good. While I was in there, I decided to replace the bearings, tappets, and add a performance cam. As well as some of the major gaskets and seals of course.

Our machine shop did a little bit of freshing up on the head, because some of the valves were slightly leaking. So in order to make them seal up properly, some of the valves were ground down, and re-seated. And a through cleaning and valve seals were replaced. A new head gasket went in, and the ATS headstuds were torqued down to 130 ft/lbs, in preperation for the compounds going on.

With everything sitting right and shiny new, I started the P-Pump conversion with a little baby 160hp P-Pump and schied diesel injection lines. Injectors were sent of to have the pop-pressure set to 280 BAR to compensate for the P-Pump pressure, instead of the VP pop-pressure. The Ford V-10 Alternator was also kept for a simple plug and play app. Just had to fabricate some brackets to hold it. Destroked was used for the motor mounts. A the factory dodge adapter plate and starter were kept, in anticipation for an ATS trans with standalone valve body, billet input shaft and billet flex plate. A custom power steering line was also made.

And here is what we are working with. 2000 Ford F-250 on 38's code name Turd Burgler. Not pretty, but is gonna be a fun ride!

New Tricks For An Old Dog - Compound Turbos 4.0

2011-11-18T15:48:00.001-08:00

[Guest Post by: Chris Burandt]

Fabrication and mounting underway for the Aurora Compounds

I was really hoping I was going to have to cut a hole in my hood to fit the compounds. That way everyone could see how cool and clean the big Aurora 7500 looks like sitting in there. To my disappointment everything fits and the hood closes properly...bummer :) It's so sweet how clean this kit is.
I know it's not possible but it almost seems like there is more room under the hood with the extra charger in there. Really seemed to open things up after they moved a couple things around. I traded in my boost gauge that only read 35 psi for a 60 psi gauge. Almost brought a tear to my eye thinking about 50 lbs of boost!
Applied Plastic Coatings received the Fusion Bumpers which will house the LED lighting and began adding the nylon coating in white to match the truck's paint. More pictures to come and we're getting close!

Piping is fabricated for the compound turbo charge pipes

Applied Plastics coats the Fusion Bumpers white

The Aurora Compound Turbo System as seen through the fender well

Chris mounts part of the now coated Aurora Turbo System

New Tricks For An Old Dog - Engine Mods 3.0

2011-11-16T14:02:00.001-08:00

[Guest Post by: Chris Burandt]

Now we're talking! Motor got put back into the truck with a fresh head gasket, ARP head studs and a sweet looking set of ATS manifolds and up-pipes. Now the fun begins. Over the next couple days the plan is to get the compound turbo kit installed. For turbo's, ATS is going to be using the stock charger with their Aurora 7500 which will create awesome response on the bottom and tons of air up top to fix my high exhaust gas temperature (EGT) problem. It was so frustrating to me with my previous set up that I had tons of power but no way to use it when pulling up the passes because of excessive EGT's.

With the lack of air we have up here in the Colorado high country I'm so excited about compounds! All this talk of not being able to get a truck with compounds over 1200 degrees has got me smiling. I've seen 2000 degrees on my current set up!!! YIKES. Bring on the air!!

Chris at ATS mounted up the Twin CP3 kit. After talking with Clint Cannon, the owner of ATS, I really like what the twin CP3 kit brings to the table. Even though we're going to be running stock injectors for this towing set up the extra fuel provided by the twin CP3 kit not only maintains desired rail pressure at all times but it also makes the truck run way smoother. What I also like about this kit is it allows me the option to go bigger in the future with my injectors or a more aggressive EFI live tune as well. Oh and that billet pulley that drives the second pump looks way cool too!

My wife actually told me I was pathetic when after I signed the papers on this truck. I only made it the 17 miles from the dealership to ATS's shop to get the first modification done. I originally bought this white beauty with 80,000 miles on it and I new 2 things as soon as I drove it off the lot; One was that I couldn't leave it stock, and two was this poor truck would have a trailer behind it 75% of the time. So it was a no-brainer to me to have the boys at ATS throw in one of their big bad purple transmissions with a Five Star Torque Converter and Co-pilot to handle any load or amount of power I could throw at this thing. To date it has been the best modification I have ever done to the truck. It's funny when I get in another diesel and drive it around, especially a modded one that doesn't have any tranny work, how much more solid mine feels than the stock ones. What a difference!

Can't wait to see the compound turbos next!

New Tricks For An Old Dog - Lift and Suspension Mods 2.0

2011-10-27T13:10:00.000-07:00

[Guest Post by: Chris Burandt]

And so it’s begun! The boys at ATS are elbows-deep into turning my once stock riding,grandpa-looking, super clean dually into a compound (twin) turbo breathing,Cognito-lifted pull-any-trailer-way-too-fast, beast of a truck! With 170,000 miles on the ol’ girl we decidedto do the head gasket, add some head studs and check the injectors. Come to find out the head gasket showed somesigns of leakage and there was one injector out of spec.

I’m really glad ATS leaned me towards goingthrough the motor. It would have been abummer to put all the goodies on and then have to tear it back apart later downthe road. With a new head gasket andinjector this bad boy 6.6L will be good for another 170,000!

Phase 2, the lift. When the tech got the Sawzall out I thought he was just joking aroundwith me. Then the safety glasses cameon…real funny guys. Then I had to jumpout of the way so I didn’t lose an arm! Icould tell this wasn’t Chris’ first rodeo with Chevy suspension installs. After weeks of research on the internet itwas clear the only way to go up with the dualler was a lift from CognitoMotorsports. Cognito’s patentedproducts, insanely good fit and finish, and the ability to retain stock driveangles made this purchase a no brainer. For all the towing this truck will be doing with 5^th wheeland goose neck trailers I decided to go with the 4-6 inch lift. I was able to get my low rider off theground, but nothing too crazy to affect the great towing characteristics of thetruck. I can’t wait to see what thisthing looks like when it hits the ground!

This is truly one heavy duty lift. I’ve had lifts installed on several othervehicles in the past but nothing as overbuilt with OEM like fitment as thisCognito kit. I haven’t even seen thetruck on the ground yet and I’m pumped!

Like a kid on Christmas I couldn’t get the Fox RacingShox box open quick enough. I run FoxShox on all my snowmobiles so again running these bad boys on my truck was aneasy choice. I went with remotereservoir shocks front and rear. Pictures don’t do these things justice. Between the burly looking Cognito kit and the trophy truck like Fox shoxthis really is going to feel like a brand new truck. As you can tell by the aggressive treadpattern I like to run on my 215s I can’t wait to throw some new meats on. Is there anything better than new tires? OK, enough torture, can we please quit taking picturesand put this thing on the ground! Iwanna see it!

New Tricks For An Old Dog - Making Your Truck New Again 1.0

2011-10-14T16:12:00.000-07:00

ATS Diesel has teamed-up with X Games Snowmobile Champ Chris Burandt for a retooling of his GM Duramax Truck. With the current price of new diesels and low trade-in value offered by dealers, Chris decided to go a different route rather than buy new; Teach an old dog some new tricks.
[Guest post by Chris Burandt]:

The day is almost here! On Oct 17 my truck goes under the knife under the careful hands of the crew over at ATS Diesel Performance. It's time to take the 'ole dualler up a couple notches. Make that a bunch of notches! Compound turbos, Twin CP3's, head studs, EFI Live tuned by ATS, Cognito 4" lift, Fox Shocks, Fusion bumpers front and rear, Rigid Lighting, N-Fab steps and a wrap from Fineline graphics. That should do the trick!

This crazy project all started when a buddy of mine brought over his new Duramax and we went for a test drive. After riding in the very quiet, super smooth and pretty decent powered stock truck I got the new truck itch. (That new car smell gets me every time!) So down to the dealer I went with my super clean 04 Duramax which just cracked 170,000 miles. Just got er' broke in the way I like.

Now I know I haven't bought a new truck in a while but holy crap have things got expensive. This is where things started to get a little eye opening for me. The truck I was looking at replacing my sweet ride with ended up being over $61,000! Yeah that first number is a 6! So I took a pretty big gulp and said, "Ok, so how much will you give me for my truck?" Now I'm thinking even though it's got some miles on it, I'm super anal about my truck and it get's washed more than my 2 year old son does. So that should be worth something right? When the salesman told me he could give me $12,000

I thought to myself, "Is he just trying to buy the tranny, turbo and sweet exhaust brake off of my truck for $12,000?" Nope, $12,000 for the whole shoot-n-match. So let me get this straight, this guy wants my perfectly good truck and $49,000 for this shiny new thing sitting in front of me that has half the power of my rig and has none of the fun stuff that we all do to all of our vehicles. Say what!?! Let's just say that didn't make much sense to me. So I jumped back in ole white and headed down the road.

This got me thinking, why not take a fraction of the money I was going to have to pony up to buy a new stock truck and just make my perfectly good dirtymax new to me! Thus, all of the goodies above. Stay tuned as through out the build I'll be posting some pictures and updates of how the transformation is going. Can you say TWINS Basil!!!! (If you haven't seen Austin Powers that last line won't make much sense to you. But if you have, you've got a smile on your face just like me!)

Stay tuned!
-Chris Burandt

Metal Shop Fummins Truck Giveaway Night

2011-04-25T14:26:00.000-07:00

Friday night the Metal Shop Build concluded (for the most-part) at a party thrown by KBPI Radio at Quaker Steak. A big crowd of key winners and others who just wanted to get in on the action headed to Westminster CO. to check out the truck in the parking lot before one person would finally have their key start the engine and take possession of their prize.

Coyote Motorsports Arrives With
The Raptor 700 Prize

By 7pm the parking lot was overflowing as KBPI awarded the final set of ignition keys. Coyote Motorsports rolled in with a new Raptor 700 quad to add to the prize package. Each key was placed inside it's own tiny envelope and hung on a pegboard in front of the fummins truck. One-by-one the key recipients stepped up to the truck to try their luck. One or more of the contestants, as noted by the night's host - Willie B., had traveled from a few states away to try to win the truck.

Some time later and with some frozen Bud Light Girls desperately looking-on Dominic H. and his wife Adrianna finally handed Willie the winning key. Everyone knew that a winner had finally stepped forward; Not by the sound of engine starting, but rather by the screaming coming out of Adrianna.
As the deadline arrived for the giveaway night there were still some loose ends with the build that ATS, Master Craft, and Car Toys will be working on now in order to hand over truck to Dominic. Thanks to everyone that took part in this year's Metal Shop and congratulations to Dominic and Adrianna!

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Metal Shop Fummins Final Hours

2011-04-22T09:35:00.000-07:00

The final trim pieces are painted and coming together on the truck. Yesterday the guys were finishing with some work to the brakes and finishing fabrication with the suspension system. The truck is looking pretty complete with all of the body pieces being added where they belong.

Front Grill is ready complements of Camaros Plus

A couple of finishing details will have to be added after the giveaway tonight due to the hours involved in building the main parts of truck. After ATS the Fummins will go to Car Toys for the sound system and then onto Master Craft Auto for the interior and upholstery work.
The person who finds out that they have the winning key to the truck tonight at Quaker Steak and Lube will definitely be taking possession of a one-of-a-kind vehicle. There will be a lot of potential to modify the truck for more performance in the future and we're hoping that the truck will show back up for more upgrades and updates.

Metal Shop Fummins Truck Glass, Electrical, And Wheels

2011-04-21T11:01:00.000-07:00

Bill's Englewood Driveshaft Helps Out On The Driveline

High Class Auto
Glass Installs
The Windows

As the guys were working on getting the driveline in-place thanks to Bill's Englewood Driveshaft, the boys from High Class Autoglass stopped by to get new glass put in the Fummins Metal Shop Truck. The windows were tinted which matches the black paint scheme nicely.

While this was happening the guys from ATS had the intercooler propped-up in front of the engine while the charge air pipes were fabricated and fitted. On the back of the truck the custom dual battery tray was mounted for the Optima's, which will help keep the engine compartment clean and more open.

Zach and Nelson got more work done to the engine compartment and have been running electrical and fitting pieces for the engine and the dash. The custom dash will have updated gauges from Autometer and should give the truck's interior a great look.

Wheels From Jazz It Up

New wheels and tires arrived from Jazz It Up to match the black body pieces and are being fitted on the front and rear. The bumpers and body trim pieces are being coated in the same black as the main body and will be bolted on once the major work is done to the other areas.

Zach had some modification to do on the back of truck and spent last night welding the supports for the 4-Link Suspension System.

Red Top Optima's In Custom Bracket

Intercooler Is Prepped For Install

Sizing-Up The Door

Engine Work & Cab Fitment

High Class Preps New Windshield

Zach Fabricates Intercooler Pipes

Where am I?

Nelson Works On Electrical

You Can't

Doug and Zach Fabricate
The Custom Dash

Mike Brings In The New
Wheel Set

Camaros Plus Preps
The Trim Pieces

Chris Modifies The Front
Suspension For New Wheels

Zach Welds Part Of The
4-Link Suspension

Metal Shop Truck Rear End Work

2011-04-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

Devin modifies the rear end

Work continued on the rear half of the KBPI Radio Metal Shop Fummins the other day. After the factory 9-inch rear differential was replaced with the Chrysler 14-bolt 11.5", the frame needed to be strengthened to support the new level of torque from the diesel engine. Cross braces were fabricated and welded-into the frame just behind the cab to provide stability.

Changes are also in-progress on the rear of the truck before the bed can be remounted. Devin from ATS was hard-at-work grinding and cutting the sections of the rear frame to accommodate the updated box. Audio Wrap has been placed inside the cab to help deaden the interior noise and make for easier listening with the new Alpine Sound System from Car Toys.

There is still some work to be done on the front-end of the truck and the look will be quite a bit different once all of the updated pieces are back in-place.

KBPI Radio's Metal Shop 7 Truck Rear End

2011-04-11T10:25:00.000-07:00

The Fummins Metal Shop Truck now sits on a 14-bolt 11.5" rear end with a custom fabricated 4-Link suspension. The front end has also been updated with heavy-duty springs and rotors from Jazz It Up. Fuel will held in the fuel cell which is now bolted in-place. Due to the torque that the rear end will see from the Cummins Engine and the low-sitting attitude of chassis, the 4-Link System made sense to put on the back. This will do a good job of keeping the wheels planted and update the old style suspension with new technology. Rear airbags will be added by ATS to help finish the overall package.

Front End Work For The Metal Shop Fummins

2011-04-11T08:37:00.000-07:00

Zach, Mike & Devin Mount The
Front-end Parts

With the engine transplanted into the truck, work was able to begin on the front-end assembly of the Fummins. Zach, Mike, and Devin began mocking-up the front radiator and supports. The hood will be placed on the truck and will allow for measurements and fitting to happen between all of the pieces. Once the front pieces are mounted then the detail work inside the engine compartment can be completed.

Next; Onto the 4-Link Suspension and rear end work!

Metal Shop Fummins Truck Second Turbo & Engine Pieces

2011-04-07T16:33:00.000-07:00

Zach modifies the firewall
and fuel injection hardware

Zach was hard at work on the Metal Shop Fummins today getting more engine hardware fitted and mounted. The atmospheric or bottom low pressure turbocharger is mounted now and tubing for the rest of the turbo system is being fabricated.

Powdercoated engine pieces are getting bolted in-place such as the valve covers. The P7100 high pressure fuel pump is mounted and fuel lines and fittings are soon to come. Since the Cummins Engine is mounted in a retro truck the P7100 injection pump will simplify things and eliminate the need for other electronics, since it is mechanically timed.

Fabricated crossmember is in-place

Zach fabricated the crossmember and mounting solution for the transmission and has that bolted-in underneath the truck. Suspension parts should be getting mounted tomorrow and will help support the heavier weight of the new power plant.


Powdercoated engine hardware being mounted

Second (atmospheric) turbo is mounted

2011 lbs of Cummins Power in a 1977 lb Package

2011-04-06T15:53:00.000-07:00

Is this thing going to fit?

Yes it did. The 5.9L Cummins Engine is now mounted to the built ATS Diesel Transmission and both are sitting in the 1977 Ford Truck. Body modifications are mostly done to the Ford and provisions were made to support the extra weight of the new diesel engine which is being transplanted.

The center section of the body has been given a work-over and gotten some nice coats of flat black paint thanks to Camaros Plus Denver Body Shop.

Modifications are underway to the truck's firewall to support the non-OEM engine and hardware. ATS built a heavy duty automatic transmission which will be used to get the new power to the wheels. The factory Ford rear end was exchanged for a 14 bolt 11.5" rear from a newer model Dodge Ram in order to support the high level of torque that the drivetrain will experience.

Last week listeners of 106.7 KBPI Radio chose to have Car Toys supply an Alpine Stereo for the build. This week listeners vote on which style of exhaust will go into the truck. Interior work and suspension are soon-to-come. KBPI continues to award keys to fans in anticipation of the vehicle give-away late this month.

KBPI Radio's Metal Shop 7 - Studio Setup

2011-02-14T15:44:00.000-08:00

KBPI Radio's Scoop made the trip to ATS Diesel's HQ today to get the streaming video/photo cameras set up. A handful of cameras were mounted around the build area and up-linked to KBPI's website server to allow the build to be followed online.

The build area studio is setting up.

Scoop gets the video streaming online

Joel sets up the network to stream live shots

According to the KBPI polling it looks like the engine going into the Metal Shop Truck will be a 12-Valve Cummins. Up for voting today on the KBPI website is the paint color and door handle style. Also up for decision is the option to either have the truck in long bed or short bed flavor. More updates coming soon!

KBPI Radio's Metal Shop 7 Truck Build At ATS Diesel

2011-02-08T16:34:00.000-08:00

KBPI DJ Willie B. Shows Off The Truck To Be Built

For the 7th edition of KBPI Radio's Metal Shop Vehicle Build, ATS Diesel was chosen to be the 2011 host. Each year the radio station locates a donor vehicle and product sponsors. The vehicle is then rebuilt and modified with performance upgrades. This year's vehicle is a 1977 F-150 Pickup which will receive a diesel engine transplant along with a grocery list of other upgrades which will all be voted-on by the listeners.

Cold Start For The F-150


The Build Area Is Prepped

This week as the build process begins the '77 Ford was dropped-off at ATS Diesel. The crew at the shop began clearing and prepping the area where the build will take place. This week KBPI has a page on their website devoted to allowing listeners to vote on which power plant will be installed into the truck in place of the 460 gas engine. The engine options are the 5.9L Cummins from the Dodge Ram, 6.6L Duramax from GM Diesels, and the 7.3L Ford Power Stroke.

Whichever engine is decided-on, the truck is going to need some serious help on the front end to support the additional weight versus the 460 gas unit. Body work and interior upgrades will also be happening along the way and this truck should look a lot different very soon.

Co-Pilot For 6.7L Dodge Ram Solves 68RFE Transmission Issues

2011-01-20T12:56:00.000-08:00

Co-Pilot For 68RFE Transmission

ATS has released the most advanced version of the Co-Pilot Controller to assist the durability of the 68RFE Transmission in the 6.7L Dodge Ram Diesel. This truck is capable of impressive power and performance and serious towing weight, but has been lacking in the transmission longevity department. This new transmission system uses computer control to govern hydraulic clamping pressure and shift /lockup strategy (similar to the Allison Transmission in the GM Duramax Trucks).
The combination of mechanical limitations and factory computer programming has left truck owners who are towing heavy loads or tuning for improved performance with a void and in-need of an aftermarket solution. The Co-Pilot Controller for the 68RFE Transmission plugs into the OEM electrical harness and monitors the load being placed on the gearbox. The hydraulic pressures, shifting, and torque converter lockup strategies are modified to prevent the pressure from dropping to an unsafe level and therefore avoiding slippage of the internal clutch packs. Many issues stem from hard acceleration damage that occurs to the 'low-sprag' or 'low-roller clutch' inside the transmission. The Co-Pilot is programmed to engage the low clutch pack to distribute the torque load more effectively.
The Co-Pilot on its own creates much better longevity inside of a properly functioning transmission, but may not be a 100% solution depending on the application. If internal transmission wear/damage, extreme towing weight, or significantly increased power are factors, then mechanical upgrades to the transmission's internals are needed in-conjunction with the Co-Pilot.

With easily selectable programs available in-cab to the driver and exclusive strategy for keeping the 68RFE Transmission alive, the Co-Pilot is a great solution for 6.7L Dodge Ram Owners who tow, snowplow, street-rod or compete with their truck.

Are Twin CP3 Fuel Pumps Harder On My Diesel Engine Than A Single?

2010-04-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

"Are Twin CP3 Fuel Pumps Harder On My Diesel Engine Than A Single?"

This question comes up quite a bit these days with the number of light duty diesel truck owners who are modifying their truck for more power and therefore needing to increase fuel supply. There seems to be much incorrect info to be found online and lots of hearsay dealing with misconceptions. The simple answer is NO.

What is true is that introducing a much higher-than-OEM amount of fuel pressure on a truck would cause issues over time with the fuel system and injectors. Before the release of the Twin CP3 Fuel System (sometimes referred to as a 'dual fueler'), there were many attempts in the industry to simply modify a single CP3 Pump for more pressure (as had been done in earlier 12 Valve and 2nd Generation 24 Valve Cummins pumps) in order to keep up with the fuel level demanded by power modifications. Some of these modified single pumps produce an unsafe amount of fuel pressure and lead to shortened pump life and driveability issues.

ATS Diesel released the Twin CP3 Fuel System which allows the addition of a second main injection pump or 'twin pump' to work in unison with the original factory CP3 Pump. The system uses a few key elements which make it safe and reliable for increased power. The Twin CP3 Controller (supplied with kit) is a self-contained micro computer which acts as an intermediary between the truck's OEM computer and the fuel system. The twin pumps are run together as if there were only one pump in place. An important factor is that fuel supply (volume) is maintained without using the high pressure found in other single pump upgrades. Because the two pumps run in unison, and are regulated by the Twin CP3 Controller, they perform their job at partial duty cycle and provide the required volume of fuel to the injection system. Since the pumps are not working as hard to maintain fuel supply, the life of each pump is extended beyond what a single pump would attain. This volume (as with turbochargers), is the important ingredient, as opposed to simply upping pressure. When a truck is modified for more power with tuning or injectors this fuel supply volume becomes a limiting factor for performance.

Because of the supporting installation hardware required and second pump, the Twin CP3 Fuel Systems are somewhat more costly than a single pump upgrade, but the performance and durability difference is drastic. Driveability is much better with the Twin CP3 Fuel System due to the fact that low-end and mid-range output pressures are consistent with factory levels and follow a smooth ramp-up. If performance, reliability, and quality are all important factors to a truck's owner - the Twin CP3 Fuel System is an easy and sensible choice when upgrading performance. Whether upgrading for towing and work performance, or building a hot rod truck, the Twin CP3 Fuel System is the ideal fuel supply modification.

Save Our Public Land Access!

2010-04-21T14:40:00.000-07:00

--From www.ARRA-Access.com--
Support Transparency in Public Land Designations

As you may recall, ARRA recently asked you to send a letter to your Representative about a leaked Department of Interior (DOI) memo that made it clear that President Obama was considering restricting access to public lands by declaring as many as 13 million acres in western states as National Monuments. Thank you for responding. Your voice was heard and this issue has been addressed repeatedly in Congressional hearings, on national news and in many other ways. But there is more to do.

House Committee on Natural Resources Ranking Member, Doc Hastings (R-WA) and Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands Ranking Member Rob Bishop (R-UT) introduced a Resolution of Inquiry (H. Res. 1254) aimed at requiring the Secretary of Interior to turn over to the House of Representatives specific information related to potential National Monument designations and other public lands initiatives on April 15. A resolution of inquiry is a method used by the House to obtain information from an executive branch official. The House Committee will vote on the resolution on April 28th.

Sweeping National Monument designations like those outlined in the leaked DOI memo represent a serious threat to recreation including motorized access. Any OHV use would almost certainly be forever banned in areas designated as National Monuments, and riders would have no opportunity to formally weigh in on the process. Any decision that could potentially lock OHV use out of huge swaths of public lands should be made in the light of day, and that is why it is important for you to weigh in to support transparency.

Please click the Take Action link below to send a letter encouraging House Natural Resources Committee Members to support and cosponsor H. Res. 1254.

--The link below will allow you simply send an online message to your government representatives to let them know how you feel--

CLICK HERE!>>> TAKE ACTION! <<<

Turbocharged Weekend In The Rockies - 2010 Diesels On The Mountain

2010-03-09T16:29:00.000-08:00

2010’s Diesels On The Mountain At Bandimere Speedway

ATS Diesel will host the 2010 installment of Diesels On The Mountain at Bandimere Speedway’s Thunder Mountain located in Morrison, Colorado, as well as an ATS open house in Arvada, Colorado. Diesels On The Mountain and Truck Fest take place August 6-8. Competitors from across the US and Canada will converge in Colorado to battle for top honors in sled pulling, drag racing and the show-n-shine categories (many using one truck for all events). Cash, trophies and prizes will be awarded to top finishers.

Friday August 6th ATS will host an open house and Armed Services Appreciation BBQ for Colorado area military members at our Arvada facility. Activities at ATS will begin around 10:00 a.m. Various areas of ATS’ manufacturing plant and grounds will be open for tours for those interested in how our diesel upgrades are manufactured.

Saturday August 7th features the sled pull/ truck pull at Bandimere Speedway’s unique mountain-side venue. Action will take place in Bandimere’s outlying dirt lot with gates opening at 11:00 a.m. and pulls beginning at 1:00 p.m. All competitors and spectators are invited. Classes will range from stock trucks to heavily-modified dedicated pullers. 2010’s sled pull will be cosponsored and sanctioned by NSPA (National Sled Pullers Association) and will feature NSPA’s pulling sled which is one of the newest and latest technology sleds in the country.

Sunday August 8th Truck Fest transfers the excitement to the upper paved drag strip portion of Bandimere Speedway - sponsored by Cummins Rocky Mountain. Events for Sunday include drag racing, vendor midway, rock crawling, and show-n-shine competition starting at 8:00 a.m. Spectators will see some of the most unique and detailed vehicles in the truck genre. Many of the country’s fastest trucks will be in attendance to lay down impressive quarter mile times. As with Saturday, Sunday’s competition and spectator opportunities are open to everyone. Drag racing trucks are required to either have upward-firing exhaust stacks, or use a temporary exhaust turn-up pipe for this year’s racing. This change was made at the request of the track which must manage issues presented by smoke from trucks that can damage track property and disqualify racers due to issues with the timing light system. Clamp-on exhaust turn-up kits can be acquired by calling ATS directly.

Sounding A Sour Note - Utah's Congressional Bill To Ban Aftermarket Exhaust

2010-03-05T11:39:00.000-08:00

Senator Patricia Jones from the Utah State Legislature recently introduced a bill (S.B. 106) this year which would effectively ban all aftermarket exhaust in the state. She must have missed her calling as a congressional rep in California..
The billed called for all vehicles to be equipped with an exhaust system that is “installed by the original manufacturer of the vehicle and is not modified; or meets specifications equivalent to the muffler installed by the original manufacturer of the vehicle and is not modified.” Each time that members of congress attempt to enact such laws one has to wonder if they realize the damage that they are doing to the economy and our freedoms. Whatever the initial intention was of this bill, it would be a lethal blow to many aftermarket companies who produce upgraded vehicle exhaust systems. Such laws can be compared to the ridiculous recent ban of all youth ATVs and motorcycles due to lead-based paint which has damaged the income and livelihood of countless companies.
OEM manufacturers are constrained to producing vehicle components cheaply in order to compete for price points in the market. This causes them to use lesser materials for things like exhaust systems. In contrast to aftermarket exhaust systems which are often produced out of stainless steel, the OEM system will typically be aluminized material. This leads to materials deteriorating over time and the advent of rusted pipes and mufflers which do not work as efficiently as intended (or as effectively as the aftermarket solutions). Whatever the initial intention is of bills like this one, the end result is lower quality products for consumers and less competition to drive innovation.
As is typical with bills such as S.B. 106 much of the enforcement by law officials would be left to subjective judgment as to whether the exhaust was in violation.
Luckily, for anyone who values freedom, within the past couple of days S.B. 106 was terminated for the remainder of the 2010 legislative year. Perhaps this was due to an overwhelming landslide of complaints from constituents who heard the news about the plan. Whatever the cause for the 2010 cap of the bill, aftermarket enthusiasts can almost certainly count on it rearing it's head once again in the near future. Emailing and calling congress members will continue to be critical in ensuring that more power-grabs like this don't become law.

Sawdust And Loud Noises - ATS Diesel Remodels

2010-02-16T12:31:00.000-08:00

Customer service can be difficult with the droning buzz of a jackhammer mere feet from your desk. The customer service crew at ATS Diesel has found creative ways to be 'flexible' and persevere through the daily construction that has been part of a massive building overhaul at their Arvada Colorado HQ. Since neither the construction nor the day-to-day operations at ATS can be put on hold, much of it has occurred during the same hours.

Somewhere around six months ago the ATS building began undergoing the second major remodel in its six year history (the first being the initial move-in during the 2004-2005 transition). When the 104,000 square foot building was first purchased it was just an empty shell and it was difficult to know exactly what layout would be most effective. Over the years a number of ideas and plans were discussed to help streamline the production of a product line that now covers some six hundred products.

With many of the truck owners who upgrade their diesel wishing to have installation happen at ATS, the Arvada building tends to become a temporary home during the day to those that travel to Colorado from other areas of the country. For that reason the showroom and lobby areas have been a big focus and include some new amenities including a projection screen entertainment center lounge and video game room.

Complete ATS Newsletters: http://www.atsdiesel.com/ats2/newsletter/issues.asp

Manufacturing is being streamlined and departments such as engineering are shifting to different areas of the building to update procedures and increase efficiency. The ability to have a clean engineering area with updated technology will mean that products continue to be the best quality and fit for installation on trucks. Consolidating production areas like converter machining and laser cutting are already helping to make a difference in production turnaround times. Things have come a long way from the previous ATS facility and even the current building in its original form.

A Billet Converter By Any Other Name Is Not The Same

2010-02-12T10:18:00.000-08:00

We see a lot of 'billet' torque converters on the web and in ads these days and wonder how many people understand the inner workings of them enough to know the differences in brands and what offers the biggest advantages. So many of the converters available are simply a stock-style rebuild stuffed into a billet cover with few true modifications to make them better and stronger than stock.

While the billet cover is a feature that we build into the Five Star and TripleLok Torque Converters which prevents warping and 'mushrooming', that is just the beginning. The other main components of the converter's internals are just as critical to supporting increased power output from the engine and serious towing weight. These other areas include: lockup clutch system, lockup apply piston, turbine and impeller, stator, bearings, and hub. When ATS builds diesel torque converters all of these areas are given equal attention and all aspects are greatly enhanced.

Torque Converter Info

By looking at the internals of the Five Star or TripleLok Torque Converters compared to the stock unit (above) it is clear how much work is really done to provide increased strength. Most other upgrade converters simply change part 'A' (billet cover), but the rest of the internal structure is mostly just a stock rebuild. The ATS cover begins to show drastic differences from all others in the fact that the mounting surface features a twelve bolt design (with bolt holes incorporated into the cover) versus the factory six (with bolt holes welded on externally). Stock converters are completely missing section 'B' and have a single clutch friction surface bonded to part 'C' (piston). Our design is very different in that we add a multi-disc clutch pack (part 'B') which more than doubles the torque-holding ability by distributing load and using locking square tabs on each disc. The square tab design is patented and exclusive to ATS. The stock stamped steel piston 'C' is replaced with a billet dampened piston that doesn't warp and provides a cushioned engagement compared to other aftermarket designs which don't have a dampener. The turbine and impeller (parts 'D' and 'F') are furnace brazed and reinforced to prevent flattening or damaging of the fins due to fluid pressure wear. Finally a proprietary billet CNC machined stator ('E') is used to provide optimized fluid redirection between the turbine and impeller.

Conveying how different and how much stronger the ATS design really is versus stock and other aftermarket units is always a challenge, but those that have visited our manufacturing facility in Colorado instantly see quality and workmanship that set the Five Star and TripleLok Converters apart from all others.