Features:
When you’re pushing your 5.9L Cummins harder—whether for towing, daily driving, or performance upgrades—the factory cylinder head can quickly become a weak link. Stock replacement heads might get the job done for basic applications, but they don’t offer the airflow, durability, or performance potential that a high-quality upgrade can. That’s where the BD Diesel Stage 1 Performance Cylinder Head comes in. Designed to improve efficiency, lower EGTs, and handle higher boost levels, this head is built for owners who want reliability and performance without jumping into extreme modifications. One of the biggest advantages of this head is its 5-axis CNC porting. Unlike a standard remanufactured unit that simply restores factory specs, this head is precision-machined to dramatically improve airflow. Intake flow jumps from 155 CFM to 220 CFM, meaning your engine can breathe better, spool up faster, and run cooler under load. More airflow also leads to reduced boost pressure at the same power levels, making your turbo work more efficiently and extending its lifespan.
Valve control is another area where stock cylinder heads often fall short, especially in high-boost applications. To combat this, BD Diesel equips this head with 105-pound valve springs. These stronger springs provide better control at higher RPMs, reducing valve float and ensuring consistent performance when you step on the throttle. Paired with upgraded, heat-resistant hardened valve seats, this head is designed to hold up under extreme conditions, preventing the common issue of valve seat failure that can plague stock heads. Durability and build quality are key with any performance upgrade, and this cylinder head is no exception. Every unit is fully disassembled, crack-checked, resurfaced, and pressure-tested to exceed OEM standards. New bronze valve guides and high-performance valve seals ensure a precise fit and long-term reliability. Unlike some aftermarket options that require extensive modifications to install, this head retains the factory intake plenum, making installation straightforward while still delivering significant performance gains. It’s important to note that this version of the Stage 1 Performance Cylinder Head does not come with a fire ring. For most users, this isn’t a drawback—it simply means that the head is designed for applications where extreme cylinder pressures aren’t a concern. Fire rings are typically used in high-horsepower builds where combustion pressures are pushed to the limit. If you’re running a tuned daily driver or a tow rig, this head provides all the airflow and durability benefits without the added complexity of a fire ring setup.
Fits: 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 Dodge / Ram 5.9L Cummins
Core Charge: Refundable Core Charge of $800 applies.
Note: Not for sale on licensed California vehicles
Property | Values |
---|---|
Year Ranges | 2003-2007 |
Make | RAM |
Model | |
Series | 2500/3500 |
Engine | 5.9L 24V Cummins CP3 |
!