Hi, I'm new to diesel's, I have a 03 lb7 36,800 miles, with bfg 285's on it, have a power pup programer. no other mod's to truck yet. Gauges are on order, so I have no egt gauge yet. Ok here's my question I pull a 5er it about 9000 to 10,000 lbs. will i be safe to use the programer on the lowest setting 40 hp gain pulling my camper not having a egt gauge? I live in Michigan it not real hilly, going from Allegan to Indian lake in the UP. about a 7hr drive. About half to two thirds of it freeway the rest is 2 lane but very few stops. Just don't what to damage the motor. This is a great place large amount of very useful info here for us first time diesel owners Thanks for all the help Randy:grd:

I think you'll be fine. Look at my sig - and I don't have gauges. I tow a little lighter trailer to the UP on the 40HP tune. I just don't do 90MPH up the hill at West Branch or over the Zilwaukee (sp) bridge :). Even if the EGT's climb over an acceptable limit, you'd be over the crest before any damage.

We in MI don't have any grades compared to what some of these trucks on this site are pulling things up. When I do my out West trip next year - I will install an EGT gauge. Go for it W/O worry.

IMHO one should always have gauges when towing. Without them you just don't know what EGT's you are dealing with. $40k truck, $250 gauge? :grd: JJ :)

You'll be fine on the 40 horse setting with that load. You've already taken the right step and ordered the gauges, so drive sanely and enjoy your trip. Just get them on before the next one though.

A little off topic, but if your guessing at the trailer weight and haven't had it weighed, get it weighed! You'll probably be in for a little shock if your going by the trailer label. 9 out of 10 are off more than they should be!

Anytime you do fueling mods to a diesel you need gauges. More fuel = More heat.