Introduced in 2007, the 6.7L Cummins engine has become a cornerstone of the diesel truck world. Found exclusively in Ram Heavy Duty trucks, it delivers an exceptional balance of durability, torque, and versatility, making it a trusted choice for towing, hauling, and off-road adventures.
According to Driving Line, the shift from the 5.9L ISB to the 6.7L Cummins marked a significant evolution in diesel technology. With increased displacement and advanced emissions systems, the 6.7 Cummins set new benchmarks for power, efficiency, and environmental compliance.
However, even the best-built engines have limits. That’s where 6.7 Cummins upgrades come in. Whether you’re chasing more horsepower, better reliability, or greater efficiency, the right upgrades can take your truck from factory-built to purpose-built.
Unlocking Performance and Durability with 6.7 Cummins Upgrades
For over a decade, the 6.7 Cummins engine has been the backbone of countless work trucks and off-road rigs. Its raw power, dependability, and ability to adapt to nearly any job make it a favorite among diesel enthusiasts. But even the best engines have their limits straight from the factory.
Stock components are designed for mass production and regulatory compliance, which often leaves performance and customization on the table. That’s why so many drivers turn to 6.7 Cummins upgrades like high-flow cold air intakes, emissions-compliant tuners, and heavy-duty torque converters. These enhancements not only help unlock the full potential of your engine but also improve reliability and efficiency for the long haul.
To explore options tailored to your truck, check out Diesel Power Products’ extensive collection of Cummins performance parts. With every generation introducing new features and technology, there’s always room to refine and optimize your truck for better performance, towing, and durability.
6.7 Cummins Performance Upgrades for Maximum Power
The 6.7 Cummins engine delivers impressive torque straight from the factory, but for drivers who push their trucks to the limit—whether towing, hauling, or off-roading—there’s always room for improvement. Performance upgrades fine-tune your engine’s capabilities, helping you get more horsepower, torque, and efficiency out of every drop of fuel.
Tuners for Emissions-Compliant Optimization
Upgrading your truck doesn’t have to mean breaking the rules. Modern tuners like EFI Live or the Edge Evolution CTS3 provide emissions-compliant solutions that adjust fuel delivery and timing to boost power safely. These devices can unlock gains of up to 175 RWHP, depending on your setup, while maintaining legal compliance. Plus, many tuners include towing-specific settings, making them a must-have for drivers who demand more versatility.
Aftermarket Turbos for Enhanced Boost
The stock turbo on a 6.7 Cummins is built for general performance, but upgrading to an aftermarket turbocharger can unlock incredible potential. Options like the Fleece Performance Cheetah Turbo not only improve airflow but also allow your engine to spool faster, delivering a noticeable increase in throttle response. These upgrades are especially beneficial for towing and heavy-duty applications, where consistent power is critical.
High-Performance Injectors and Fuel Systems
For serious performance enthusiasts, upgrading injectors and fuel systems can make a huge difference. High-flow injectors ensure precise fuel delivery, while aftermarket lift pumps, like those from FASS Fuel Systems, prevent fuel starvation during high-demand scenarios. These upgrades work in tandem with tuners and turbos to maximize combustion efficiency, resulting in smoother power delivery and lower exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs).
6.7 Cummins Reliability Upgrades for Long-Term Durability
While the 6.7 Cummins is known for its reliability, demanding workloads like towing and hauling can push even the toughest engines to their limits. Upgrading key components can ensure your truck performs dependably, mile after mile, without succumbing to common wear and tear.
Cooling Systems to Handle High Demands
Overheating is a leading cause of engine damage, especially in heavy-duty applications. Upgrading to an aftermarket radiator or intercooler ensures consistent cooling under load. For example, the Mishimoto Intercooler available at Diesel Power Products offers superior airflow and heat dissipation, lowering exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs) and reducing strain on your engine.
Upgrading to a larger intercooler not only improves airflow but also reduces exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs) by approximately 50-100°F, according to Diesel IQ. This reduction in EGTs enhances engine reliability and performance, especially under heavy-duty conditions.
Suspension Upgrades for Towing Stability
When towing heavy loads, factory suspension components can struggle to maintain stability. Upgrading to Carli Suspension Systems, a trusted brand carried by Diesel Power Products, ensures better handling, reduced sag, and improved ride quality. Whether you’re tackling uneven terrain or hauling a fifth wheel, these upgrades provide the confidence and control you need.
Drivetrain Reinforcements for Longevity
Increased power from performance upgrades can put extra stress on your drivetrain. Products like BD Diesel Transmission Parts or Yukon Gear & Axle Upgrades (both available at Diesel Power Products) can prevent wear and tear, ensuring your truck handles additional torque without breaking a sweat. Reinforcing your driveline not only improves durability but also enhances towing capacity and off-road performance.
6.7 Cummins Transmission Upgrades to Handle Heavy Loads
The 6.7 Cummins engine is a torque monster, but all that power is only as good as the transmission backing it up. For those who use their trucks for towing, hauling, or performance applications, upgrading your transmission is critical to ensuring smooth power delivery and long-term reliability.
Heavy-Duty Torque Converters
Factory torque converters often struggle to handle the added demands of performance modifications or heavy towing. Upgrading to a BD Diesel Heavy-Duty Torque Converter ensures efficient power transfer, reducing slippage and heat buildup. These converters are engineered to handle the increased torque of a modified Cummins, making them a must-have for serious drivers.
Shift Kits for Better Gear Engagement
Upgrading your transmission’s shift points can drastically improve both performance and reliability. ATS Diesel’s Co-Pilot Transmission Controller (Shift Kits), available at Diesel Power Products, optimize clutch engagement for firmer, faster shifts. Not only does this enhance your truck’s driving experience, but it also reduces internal wear on the transmission, extending its lifespan.
Transmission Coolers for Temperature Control
Excessive heat is one of the leading causes of transmission failure, especially during towing. Adding an aftermarket transmission cooler, such as the Mishimoto Transmission Cooler, helps maintain optimal operating temperatures under load. This simple yet effective upgrade ensures your transmission stays cool even in the toughest conditions.
Top Upgrades for the 6.7 Cummins Engine
The 6.7 Cummins engine is built to last, but for diesel enthusiasts, the stock setup often leaves room for improvement. Upgrading specific engine components can refine performance, enhance efficiency, and prevent common issues that arise under heavy workloads or high-performance applications.
High-Flow Exhaust Systems
A restrictive exhaust system can choke your engine’s potential by increasing backpressure. Upgrading to a high-flow exhaust, like the MBRP Performance Exhaust systems available at Diesel Power Products, improves airflow and lowers exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs). These systems also enhance throttle response, making them an essential upgrade for performance-focused drivers.
Cold Air Intakes for Efficiency
Stock air intakes are designed to meet regulatory requirements but often fall short of maximizing airflow. Upgrading to a high-performance system can improve engine efficiency while boosting power.
For example, tests have shown that installing a Banks Ram-Air Cold-Air Intake on a 6.7L Cummins can increase airflow by up to 50% over the stock intake, according to MotorTrend. This improvement leads to enhanced combustion, lower exhaust gas temperatures, and potential gains in horsepower and torque, making it a simple yet impactful upgrade for diesel enthusiasts.
Monitoring Systems to Protect Your Engine
Upgraded power and towing capabilities demand more precise monitoring. Adding a Banks iDash DataMonster or Edge Insight CTS3 lets you track critical metrics like EGTs, boost pressure, and transmission temperatures in real time. These tools are indispensable for ensuring your upgrades work harmoniously and prevent potential damage during heavy use.
Best 6.7 Cummins Upgrades by Year/Generation
Not all 6.7 Cummins engines are built the same. Over the years, Cummins and Ram have introduced updates to improve performance, emissions systems, and reliability. Each generation comes with unique strengths and challenges, so choosing the right upgrades for your model ensures peak performance without compromising reliability or emissions compliance. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best upgrades for different Cummins generations:
Early Models (2007.5–2012): Strengthen the Foundation
The first generation of the 6.7 Cummins brought modern emissions systems like the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). While innovative, these systems can cause performance bottlenecks or reliability issues if left unaddressed.
Popular Upgrades:
- FASS Titanium Signature Series Lift Pump: Prevents fuel starvation and supports higher flow rates for modified engines.
- BD Diesel Screamer Turbocharger: Replaces the restrictive stock turbo for better airflow and faster spool times.
- Mishimoto Radiator: Addresses known cooling challenges, ensuring consistent performance under heavy towing or hot conditions.
Mid-Generation Models (2013–2018): Tackle Heat and Emissions
By this era, Ram introduced significant improvements, including more efficient fuel injection and updated emissions systems. However, higher operating temperatures due to increased power and towing capacities remain a concern.
Popular Upgrades:
- Banks Monster-Ram Intake Elbow: Improves airflow for better combustion and lower EGTs.
- Mishimoto Intercooler: Reduces intake air temperatures, boosting reliability during extended heavy-duty use.
Latest Models (2019–Present): Optimize Advanced Features
With the latest generation, Ram has pushed the 6.7 Cummins to deliver up to 1,075 lb-ft of torque in stock form. While factory performance is impressive, targeted upgrades can refine and optimize these modern trucks even further.
Recommended Upgrades:
- Banks Ram-Air Cold Air Intake: Increases airflow and enhances turbo efficiency.
- Edge Insight CTS3 Monitor: Tracks critical metrics like fuel rail pressure and boost, ensuring safe operation during heavy loads.
- Carli Suspension Kits: Improves ride quality and stability for off-road adventures or towing.
Build Your Truck Right with 6.7 Cummins Upgrades
The 6.7 Cummins engine has earned its reputation as a reliable workhorse, but thoughtful upgrades can transform it into a truly customized powerhouse. Whether you’re chasing more horsepower for towing, ensuring long-term durability, or optimizing your truck for daily use, the right enhancements make all the difference.
Upgrading isn’t just about adding parts—it’s about building a truck that performs the way you need it to. With options ranging from performance tuners and turbochargers to suspension kits and cooling systems, every improvement contributes to a more capable, dependable, and efficient truck.
For diesel enthusiasts serious about performance and reliability, Diesel Power Products offers a carefully curated selection of 6.7 Cummins performance parts. Explore our catalog to find the upgrades that best match your truck and your goals—and let’s keep your Cummins running stronger for years to come.