aFe DPF-back exhaust installation
Dodge Cummins 2010 L6-6.7L gets a little power boost with better exhaust flow
by Bruce W. Smith
Owners of 2010-newer Ram diesels who want a little more pulling power might want to consider upgrading the factory intake and exhaust to let the engine breath easier.
The aFe Performance Package is a complete air-flow solution producing 5hp and 12 lbs./ft. of torque.
This matched package, which retails for $725, contains the aFe Stage 2 MegaCannon air-intake system to handle bringing in maximum air volume and flow. This intake out flowed the factory intake by 81% according to aFe testing while lowering exhaust gas temperatures (EGT).
This aFe intake system includes a durable 16-gauge, powder-coated heat shield holding a high-flow washable/reusable conical air filter made from 100-percent polyurethane so it’ll withstand multiple cleaning cycles.
The intake also includes a heat-insulating molded-plastic tube that replaces the stock intake tract and directs increased air flow with improved volumetric efficiency be eliminating the OEM sound baffles and other restrictions.
One the exhaust side, aFe’s “Large Bore” HD 4″ DPF-back exhaust replaces the factory muffler and exhaust pipe aft of the DPF assembly to continue with the air flow velocity with a very slight increase in exhaust note. The deletion of the stock muffler does little in increasing the exhaust note of the Ram 2500 Cummins as the massive DPF unit, in itself, acts as a huge muffler. 
This exhaust upgrade does help lower EGT’s for maximum performance when towing bigger loads. As an added value, aFe has thrown in a huge 6″ black powder-coated aFe Power Tip for that custom look.
This kit is 50-state legal (CARB E.O Number D-550-4) and it doesn;t affect the Ram factory warranty in any way. For more information: www.afepower.com; 951-493-7100
Our thanks to Darren Parker at Truck Supply & Outfitters in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, for the use of their shop and expert manpower.
We also want to thank GearWrench for keeping our hand tools up-to-date with the newest wrenches, sockets and ratchets.We’ve been using GearWrench tool kit #80934, which we’ve found invaluable for working on our Big Boss project truck.; there’s a wrench, ratchet, and socket to meet every need.
Here’s how the exhaust kit is installed.
