Unpopular opinion: This custom turbo setup on my pickup is driving me nuts

I decided to add a custom turbo to my old diesel pickup as a side project, thinking it would be a cool way to get more power. But man, getting the exhaust manifold to line up right has been a total pain. I had to weld new brackets, and my first try cracked after just a few heat cycles (should have used thicker steel, I guess). Now I'm dealing with boost leaks that I can't seem to find, and the engine keeps running rough under load. My buddy said it was a bad idea from the start, and I'm starting to think he was right. I've got oil stains all over my driveway from checking connections over and over. Part of me wants to scrap the whole thing and go back to stock, but I've put too much time into it already. Sometimes these creative fixes just aren't worth the hassle.

2 comments

2 Comments

brookel494d ago

My buddy's Cummins swap had the same manifold cracks and boost leaks at first. He just used thicker steel for the brackets and a new gasket kit. After some careful pressure testing, he sealed it up and now the truck runs amazing! Those tough fixes make the final result so satisfying. You've already done the hard part, so giving up now would be a shame. Push through and you'll have a unique, powerful ride that beats any stock truck!

noahpark4d ago

Someone on a diesel forum swore by a smoke test for tracking down boost leaks. Might be worth a shot before throwing in the towel.