I have a 1998 Dodge CTD 24valve. When i got it the only thing that was done to it was the muffler was taken off. I love the way it sounds. But is that killing my horse power or did it give me more because of free flow. Also what other things can i do to get more ft lbs besides a chip and exhaust. Thanks Mike

 

Welcome to the site Mike!
Running a straight pipe really doesn't add or subtract any HP. However, it does help with lowering EGT's (exhaust gas temp). Getting more air to the motor helps also. Do a search on BHAF or Scotty air systems. The only way to add any real HP or torque is by adding more fuel. This can be done fairly cheap with fueling boxes (EZ, VA, that can run around $300-400 used) or injector swaps which you can find good deals on used ones from folks who are moving up to bigger ones. The RV275's or DD2's are nice upgrades for not much $$$.

 

I read all the articles that say 1998.5 up. if you have a Cummins that is below the 6 month in 1998 is that bad?

 

98 were the last of the 12 valves, 98.5 were the first of the 24 valves.

 

Nope. That's probably one of the best years for the cummins. It means it's a 12 valve and they are VERY easy to turn up.

 

so my 24 valve is fine? I am new to the Diesel trucks i have only had 360ci. I will never go back!

 

The 12 valve was the last mechanical diesel engine. The 24 valve is electronic. The difference with bombing is that the 12 valve is cheaper but takes more time, the 24 valve is more plug and play. I think that its just a matter of personal preferrence. They both have their demons (pumps for the 24 V and the KDP in the 12 V, either one can have a #53 block, or so I've heard) and both are fine engines that will last a long time if properly cared for.

 

mufflers and cats dont so anything positive for YOUR TRUCK

 

His is a 24v so it has a resonator not a cat.