Building the Perfect Tow Rig for Diesel Performance
Description
This episode of the Power Driven Podcast is all about the ultimate working man’s tow trucks. After one of our listeners suggested it, the crew sat down to dive into the tow rigs we use to haul race trucks, trailers, and everything in between. These aren’t dealership stock trucks, they’re purpose built, hard working rigs that blur the line between daily hauler and performance build. Towing is a huge part of what we do, and when you’re moving 20,000 to 30,000 pounds through mountain passes, the right setup makes all the difference.
Todd kicks things off with his well known 2006 Mega Cab Dodge 2500, which has seen everything from drag racing to hauling triple axle trailers. Under the hood is a 6.7 block with upgraded rods, cam, ported head, dual CP3s, and 200% over DDP injectors. His compound setup pairs a 467.7 over a brand new Aggressor 98mm turbo, testing a kit that’s just about to release. Backing it all up is a 1500 horsepower transmission that’s as fun as it is reliable, complete with the kind of shifter that even gets cops asking questions.
Meyer breaks down his 6.7 truck with a 68RFE six speed. It runs compounds with a new VGT 63mm turbo paired with a 480, plus a billet actuator that’s proven to be a game changer for both reliability and exhaust braking. His hot street build makes towing look easy, even when he’s dragging 30,000 plus pounds up long grades. The six speed lockup strategy and added transmission cooling keep everything smooth and in check.
Will joins in with the low power tow rig of the group, but don’t be fooled, his truck still runs a new PD charger and tows like a champ, even at 300,000 miles on the factory head bolts. He shares how sway bars, upgraded brakes, and a weight distribution hitch transformed his trailer handling, making towing safer and more stable in crosswinds and traffic.
Along the way, the guys get real about what matters most in a tow truck. Yes, power is fun, especially when you’re blowing past campers and even the occasional Kia on a mountain pass, but brakes, suspension, and cooling upgrades are what keep you safe when towing heavy. From airbags and sway bars to big brake kits and onboard air systems, they cover the essentials every diesel enthusiast should think about before hitting the road with serious weight behind them.
If you’re into diesel performance, Power Driven Diesel, Cummins engines, dyno testing, turbo upgrades, drag racing, and real world truck builds, this episode is packed with insight you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re daily driving a third gen, fine tuning a 68RFE, or dreaming of compound turbos for your tow rig, there’s something here for every diesel enthusiast.
Make sure you subscribe to the Power Driven Podcast and follow along for more episodes featuring shop talk, truck builds, dyno results, and racing stories. Check out Power Driven Diesel for more content, products, and performance upgrades to make your truck tow, race, and perform better than ever.