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When it comes to high-horsepower diesel engines, few platforms have earned the respect and reliability reputation of the 6.7L Cummins. For Conner Alsberry, that engine sits at the heart of a recent build – a freshly assembled, zero-mile powerhouse from New Performance Automotive – a shop that’s been making serious noise in the diesel performance scene for quite some time thanks to owner Steve Burton and his team’s meticulous attention to detail.
Based in Rural Retreat, VA, New Performance Automotive is known for turning out bulletproof Cummins combinations built to handle anything from sled pulling to drag racing and improved street performance. Burton’s shop specializes in high-performance diesel engines, transmission builds and custom fabrication work, and he personally oversaw the assembly of Conner’s 6.7L engine.
According to Alsberry, this was a fresh 6.7L motor with no miles on it, and thanks to Burton and New Performance Automotive, it’s got a ton of great parts inside and out.
At the core of the build, the 6.7L block features fire rings in both the head and block for maximum sealing under high boost. A 14mm girdle with studs adds rigidity and stability to the bottom end, while Wagler Street Fighter connecting rods and new fly-cut pistons ensure strength and clearance for aggressive valve lift and cam timing. Supporting it all is a Hamilton 188/220 camshaft and tappet set, working in conjunction with Hamilton pushrods to keep the valvetrain stable through the rpm range.
Up top, airflow and durability are the focus. The head has been ported and polished and fitted with XL valve seats for improved flow and longevity. A billet 6.7L intake plenum replaces the factory cast piece, offering improved volume and airflow distribution, while a set of 14mm head studs keeps everything clamped down tight.
Fueling comes courtesy of an Exergy 14mm stroker CP3 pump feeding a set of S&S 450% injectors housed in 2003-2004 5.9L bodies – a proven combo for high-pressure, high-flow fuel delivery. A Full Power Kit ensures supporting hardware is equally up to the task, and the setup is topped with an FIS GTR S450 turbocharger featuring an 85/96/1.15 T6 configuration from Steed Speed that provides massive airflow with excellent spool characteristics for the engine’s displacement.
On the oiling and accessory side, Conner’s Cummins features a new oil cooler and pump, billet freeze plugs, and a 6.7L Fluidampr balancer to keep vibration and harmonics under control. Together, these components create a balanced, reliable foundation for big boost and long-term durability.
Those are exactly the kinds of builds we’ve come to expect from the expertise of Steve Burton and the team at New Performance Automotive. Steve’s reputation speaks for itself, and his engine builds hold up to serious power – the perfect reflection of what New Performance Automotive and the diesel community stand for.
Diesel of the Week is sponsored by AMSOIL. If you have an engine you’d like to highlight in this series, please email Engine Builder Editor Greg Jones at [email protected].
