When it comes to enhancing the performance, durability, and efficiency of your Dodge Cummins truck, upgrading your exhaust manifold is one of the most critical steps. ATS Diesel has long been a leader in aftermarket performance parts for Cummins engines, and their Pulse Flow Exhaust Manifolds are no exception. Engineered for both the 5.9L Cummins and 6.7L Cummins, ATS Diesel’s Pulse Flow Manifolds are designed to improve exhaust flow, reduce backpressure, and withstand the rigors of high-performance demands, especially in extreme driving conditions.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the features and benefits of ATS Diesel’s Pulse Flow Exhaust Manifolds, explain how they differ from stock manifolds, and why upgrading to these manifolds can significantly enhance the overall performance of your Dodge Cummins truck.

The Importance of a High-Performance Exhaust Manifold

The exhaust manifold is a key component in any engine's exhaust system. Its job is to collect exhaust gases from the engine’s cylinders and funnel them into a single exhaust pipe. However, many factory manifolds, especially those on stock Dodge Cummins trucks, are prone to cracking, heat stress, and restricted airflow. These inefficiencies not only reduce performance but can also lead to long-term damage to your engine.

An aftermarket exhaust manifold like the ATS Diesel Pulse Flow Exhaust Manifold solves many of these issues by offering improved flow characteristics, heat management, and durability. Whether you’re looking for an upgrade for your 5.9 Cummins exhaust manifold or your 6.7 Cummins exhaust manifold, the Pulse Flow series is designed to withstand higher temperatures, improve turbo spool time, and extend the life of your turbocharger.

Common Issues with Stock Dodge Cummins Exhaust Manifolds

Owners of Dodge Ram trucks equipped with the 5.9L Cummins and 6.7L Cummins engines frequently experience issues with the stock manifolds. Over time, these factory-installed exhaust manifolds can develop cracks due to repeated heating and cooling cycles, which can result in exhaust leaks, poor turbo performance, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Common problems include:

• Cracking due to heat cycling: Stock manifolds, particularly on the 12-valve Cummins exhaust manifolds, are cast from brittle iron that cannot withstand the intense heat generated by high-performance engines.
• Restricted exhaust flow: Factory exhaust manifolds often have uneven flow paths, which can create backpressure, slowing down exhaust flow and reducing engine efficiency.
• Turbo lag: Poor exhaust gas flow can lead to delayed turbo spool times, causing a sluggish throttle response.

To combat these issues, ATS Diesel’s Pulse Flow Exhaust Manifolds are built with performance, durability, and efficiency in mind.

ATS Diesel Pulse Flow Exhaust Manifolds: Key Features

ATS Diesel's Pulse Flow Exhaust Manifolds are built to address the limitations of factory-installed manifolds and provide several critical advantages for owners of 5.9L Cummins and 6.7L Cummins engines.

1. Improved Exhaust Flow and Turbo Efficiency

The Pulse Flow Manifolds are designed with smoother interior surfaces and optimized port sizes to reduce exhaust backpressure. This design enhances the overall exhaust flow, allowing for quicker evacuation of exhaust gases from the engine’s cylinders. The result is:

• Faster turbo spool times
• Improved throttle response
• Reduced turbo lag

For both 6.7 Cummins exhaust manifolds and 5.9 Cummins exhaust manifolds, this optimized flow design ensures that your turbocharger receives the exhaust energy it needs to build boost pressure quickly, increasing power output across the RPM range.

2. Durability and Crack Resistance

ATS Diesel utilizes a robust, high-silicon molybdenum ductile iron in their Pulse Flow Exhaust Manifolds. This material is far more resistant to the heat cycling that causes stock manifolds to crack, especially in high-performance or towing applications where the exhaust system is subject to extreme temperatures.

Additionally, the Pulse Flow Manifolds are built with expansion joints that allow the manifold to expand and contract without cracking or warping. These expansion joints are strategically placed to accommodate thermal expansion while maintaining a tight seal between the engine head and the manifold.

3. High-Temperature Tolerances

Both the 5.9 Cummins and 6.7 Cummins are known for generating significant amounts of heat during heavy towing, off-roading, or performance driving. The Pulse Flow Manifold is engineered to handle these extreme conditions without breaking down. The high-silicon ductile iron used in its construction can withstand temperatures far higher than those tolerated by the stock manifolds, ensuring long-term reliability under the most demanding conditions.

4. Direct Bolt-On Installation

One of the key benefits of ATS Diesel’s Pulse Flow Manifolds is their direct bolt-on design. This makes installation simple and requires no additional modifications to your existing setup. The manifolds come with all necessary gaskets and hardware, ensuring a seamless installation process.

Whether you're upgrading your 12-valve Cummins exhaust manifold, or swapping out your cracked 5.9 Cummins exhaust manifold, ATS Diesel makes sure the process is hassle-free, allowing you to get back on the road with minimal downtime.

Why Upgrade to the ATS Diesel Pulse Flow Manifold?

Upgrading your exhaust manifold is one of the most effective ways to improve the performance and longevity of your Dodge Cummins engine. Whether you're a daily driver, weekend warrior, or heavy-duty tow truck operator, ATS Diesel’s Pulse Flow Manifolds offer benefits that directly address the weaknesses found in factory manifolds.

Here are some compelling reasons to consider upgrading to the ATS Diesel Pulse Flow Manifold:

1. Increased Power and Torque

By improving exhaust flow and reducing backpressure, the Pulse Flow Manifold allows your turbocharger to spool faster and more efficiently. The result is an immediate boost in horsepower and torque, especially in the low to mid RPM range where Cummins engines typically excel.

2. Better Fuel Efficiency

With improved exhaust flow and turbo efficiency, your engine doesn’t have to work as hard to expel exhaust gases. This reduces engine strain, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. For truck owners who rely on their vehicles for long-distance towing, the fuel savings alone can justify the cost of upgrading to a Pulse Flow Exhaust Manifold.

3. Enhanced Durability

The stock exhaust manifold’s tendency to crack or warp is a well-documented issue among Cummins owners. The Pulse Flow Manifold is built to last, with materials and design features that prevent cracking even under the most extreme conditions. For heavy-duty trucks or performance vehicles, this enhanced durability means fewer repairs and replacements over the life of your truck.

4. Reduced Turbo Lag

With its optimized flow characteristics, the Pulse Flow Manifold eliminates the restrictions that cause turbo lag in stock setups. This translates to faster throttle response and smoother power delivery, making your truck feel more responsive and agile, whether on the highway or off-road.

5. Perfect for Towing and Performance Applications

Whether you're towing a heavy load up a steep incline or pushing your Cummins to its limits on a race track, the ATS Diesel Pulse Flow Manifold is designed to excel under pressure. Its superior thermal resistance and flow optimization make it ideal for high-stress applications, where stock manifolds often fall short.

ATS Diesel Pulse Flow Manifolds: Available Options for 5.9L and 6.7L Cummins Engines

ATS Diesel offers its Pulse Flow Manifolds for both the 5.9L Cummins (1989-2007) and 6.7L Cummins (2007.5-present) engines. Each manifold is engineered to provide a perfect fit and maximize performance for these specific engine platforms.

5.9L Cummins Pulse Flow Exhaust Manifold

The 5.9L Cummins engine, particularly the 12-valve Cummins, is legendary for its reliability and tunability. However, its stock exhaust manifold leaves much to be desired when it comes to performance and durability. The ATS Diesel Pulse Flow Manifold for the 5.9 Cummins addresses these weaknesses with improved flow characteristics, heat resistance, and a crack-proof design.

6.7L Cummins Pulse Flow Exhaust Manifold

The 6.7L Cummins engine builds on the legacy of the 5.9L, offering more power and torque. However, like its predecessor, the 6.7 Cummins exhaust manifold is prone to cracking and restricted flow. ATS Diesel’s Pulse Flow Manifold for the 6.7 Cummins takes the same proven design and material advantages from the 5.9L version, ensuring reliable, high-performance operation for your truck.

Conclusion: Maximize Your Cummins Performance with ATS Diesel

When it comes to optimizing the performance, durability, and efficiency of your Dodge Cummins, upgrading to an ATS Diesel Pulse Flow Exhaust Manifold is a no-brainer. These manifolds offer superior flow, increased power and torque, reduced turbo lag, and unmatched durability—all while being easy to install. Whether you own a 5.9L or 6.7L Cummins, the Pulse Flow Manifold is a crucial upgrade for those looking to unlock the full potential of their truck.

Explore ATS Diesel’s Pulse Flow Exhaust Manifolds today and give your Cummins engine the performance boost it deserves.