u/Das6MTS4

Hey everyone, I’m looking to pull the trigger on a full delete and tune for my 2020 Ram EcoDiesel (Gen 3). I’m officially out of warranty and live in an area without emissions testing, so my main goal is engine longevity and waking this truck up.

Current Plan:

• Tuning: Looking at a Stage 2 bench flash (likely MR Tuning or EOC).
• Hard Parts: Full DPF/Cat delete pipe and EGR block-off plates.

A few questions for those who have been through this:

1. Supporting Mods: Is it worth adding a cold air intake and an upgraded intercooler (like PPE) at the same time? Does it actually help with EGTs and spool, or is it overkill for a daily driver?
2. Transmission Tune: For a 50-75hp increase, is the trans tune a "must-have" for shift quality, or does the stock ZF8 handle the extra torque okay on its own?
3. The ECM Swap: Since the 2020+ is a bench flash, how was your experience with the downtime? Any tips for the pre-tune reset to make sure I don't have lingering codes?
4. Turbo Resonator: Thinking about doing a resonator delete while I'm in there. Any brands you recommend for a bit more turbo whistle without being obnoxious?

Appreciate any advice or "wish I had known" tips before I send my ECM off!