Does your 6.4 Powerstroke feel a little sluggish? Maybe you’re looking to tow heavier loads or just want more get-up-and-go. Upgrading your turbocharger is a popular way to give your truck a serious boost in power and performance. But let’s be honest, the world of turbo upgrades can feel like a maze.
Choosing the right turbo for your 6.4 Powerstroke can be tricky. You’ve probably seen a lot of different options out there, and it’s hard to know which one is best for your needs. Are you worried about reliability? Do you want better fuel economy? Or is pure power your main goal? These are all important questions that can make picking a turbo a real head-scratcher.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about turbo upgrades for your 6.4 Powerstroke. We’ll explore the different types of turbos available, what they do, and how to pick the one that fits your truck and your driving style. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture and feel confident about making the right choice.
Our Top 5 Turbo Upgrade For 6.4 Powerstroke Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Turbo Upgrade For 6.4 Powerstroke Detailed Reviews
1. BorgWarner OEM Turbocharger Actuator Upgrade Kit 59001107387 Compatible with 2008-2010 Ford 6.4 Powerstroke Diesel
Rating: 9.1/10
If you own a 2008-2010 Ford 6.4 Powerstroke diesel, you might know that the original BorgWarner turbocharger actuator had some issues. BorgWarner listened and created this new and improved OEM retrofit kit, part number 59001107387. This upgrade is designed specifically for your truck’s BorgWarner V2S compound turbocharger.
What We Like:
- This new actuator is a direct replacement for the problematic original.
- It makes installation much simpler because you don’t need the old cooling manifold.
- You also don’t need to do any special calibration after you put it in.
- The kit comes with everything you need, including installation instructions and hardware.
- It’s an official BorgWarner part, so you know it’s made to fit your truck perfectly.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s an upgrade, it’s still a replacement part, and some might prefer a completely different aftermarket solution.
- Availability might be limited depending on current stock.
This upgrade kit offers a much-needed fix for a known issue on these trucks. It simplifies the repair process and gets your Powerstroke running smoothly again.
2. Bapmic BV70 V2S Turbo Turbocharger High & Low Pressure Compatible with Ford F-Series 6.4L Powerstroke Diesel 2008 2009 2010 Replace#8C3Z-6K682-B 8C3Z-6K682-AARM 1848300C92
Rating: 8.9/10
Give your Ford F-Series Powerstroke Diesel truck a boost with the Bapmic BV70 V2S Turbo Turbocharger. This turbocharger is designed for the 2008, 2009, and 2010 models with the 6.4L engine. It’s built to replace your old turbocharger and is compatible with both high and low-pressure systems. The Bapmic BV70 V2S is made with good quality, new materials to ensure it lasts a long time and works reliably.
What We Like:
- High Quality Construction: Made from new, high-quality materials for great durability and reliability.
- Wide Compatibility: Fits 2008-2010 Ford F-Series Powerstroke Diesel 6.4L trucks.
- Extensive Interchangeability: Replaces many original part numbers, making it easy to find the right fit.
- Improved Performance: Engineered to enhance your truck’s power and efficiency.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation Costs Not Included: The price only covers the part itself; you’ll need to pay for installation and related services.
- Requires Professional Installation: It’s strongly recommended to have a professional install this part for the best results and safety.
- Pre-Installation Oil: You must add engine oil to the turbocharger before using it.
This Bapmic turbocharger offers a quality upgrade for your diesel truck. Just remember to factor in professional installation costs for a smooth and safe experience.
3. by Unbranded Turbo Turbocharger High + Low Pressure Compatible with Ford F-Series 6.4L Powerstroke Diesel 2008 2009 2010
Rating: 9.3/10
Revitalize your Ford F-Series truck with this Unbranded Turbo Turbocharger High + Low Pressure unit. Designed specifically for the 2008, 2009, and 2010 Ford F-Series trucks equipped with the 6.4L Powerstroke Diesel engine, this twin turbocharger system is built to boost performance and bring your truck back to life. It’s engineered to fit and function just like the original equipment, making installation straightforward. Remember to add engine oil before use to ensure proper lubrication and longevity.
What We Like:
- Directly compatible with 2008-2010 Ford F-Series trucks featuring the 6.4L Powerstroke Diesel engine.
- Constructed from high-quality materials for excellent durability and long-lasting performance.
- Designed for a trouble-free installation, fitting and functioning like the original parts.
- Replaces key part numbers like 1848300C92, 1848300C93, and 8C3Z6K682DARM, ensuring a precise fit.
- Enhances the reliability and power of your Super Duty pickup.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires adding engine oil before initial use, which is an extra step for installation.
- As an unbranded part, specific warranty details might vary compared to OEM options.
This turbocharger is a solid choice for owners looking to restore or enhance the performance of their 6.4L Powerstroke Diesel. It offers a good balance of quality and compatibility for your Ford F-Series truck.
4. DOFOCH 8C3Z-6K682-AARM Turbo Turbocharger High & Low Pressure for 2008-2010 Ford F250 F350 F450 F550 6.4L Powerstroke Diesel Replace#8C3Z6K682B 1848300C92 179515 179523
Rating: 8.8/10
Give your Ford F-Series truck the power boost it deserves with the DOFOCH 8C3Z-6K682-AARM Turbo Turbocharger. This high and low-pressure turbocharger is designed specifically for 2008-2010 Ford F250, F350, F450, and F550 models equipped with the 6.4L Powerstroke Diesel engine. It’s built to replace your original turbocharger, restoring lost performance and efficiency.
What We Like:
- Built tough: The compressor and turbine housings are made from strong aluminum and iron, which means they can handle high temperatures and last a long time.
- Better performance: This turbo can help improve your truck’s fuel economy and reduce how much fuel it uses. It also responds quickly when you need more power.
- Easy installation: It fits and works just like the original part, making installation straightforward.
- Peace of mind: A 1-year warranty is included, and the company offers good customer support for any questions.
- Wide compatibility: It matches many original equipment part numbers, making it easier to find the right fit.
What Could Be Improved:
- Professional installation recommended: While it fits like the original, it’s best to have a professional install it to ensure everything is done correctly.
- Pre-installation step: You need to add engine oil before you use it, so remember this important step.
This DOFOCH turbocharger is a solid option for bringing your 6.4L Powerstroke back to its best. Ensure you check your truck’s details before buying to confirm it’s the right fit.
5. Pulsar Turbo Upgrade CHRA for 08-10 6.4L High Pressure Turbo
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to boost your 2008-2010 6.4L Powerstroke’s performance with the Pulsar Turbo Upgrade CHRA. This part is designed to give your high-pressure turbo a serious edge. It’s made using advanced 5-axis CNC milling from a solid piece of material. This allows for a more aggressive blade design that really makes a difference.
What We Like:
- Spools up faster, meaning less waiting for power.
- Lowers Exhaust Gas Temperatures (EGTs), keeping your engine cooler and safer.
- Achieves more boost, giving you extra power when you need it.
- Fits like a stock turbo part, so no tricky modifications are needed.
- Made from solid material with advanced milling for better performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- This CHRA is only compatible with the 6.4L High Pressure Turbo from 2008-2010.
- It’s a turbo cartridge only, so you’ll need to reuse or get your own VNT/VGT nozzle ring and vanes.
This upgrade is a straightforward way to unlock more power and better engine temps for your truck. You’ll feel a noticeable difference in how your truck drives.
Supercharge Your Ride: A Buying Guide for 6.4 Powerstroke Turbo Upgrades
So you’re looking to give your 6.4 Powerstroke a serious boost? That’s awesome! Upgrading the turbocharger is one of the best ways to unlock more power, better towing, and even improved fuel efficiency. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you make a smart choice.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a new turbo, keep these important features in mind:
- Horsepower Gains: How much extra power does the turbo promise? Think about what you want to use your truck for. More towing might need a different kind of power than just plain speed.
- Spool Time: This is how quickly the turbo starts to make power. A quicker spool means less lag, so your truck feels more responsive.
- EGT Control: Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) is how hot your exhaust gets. A good turbo helps keep EGTs down, which is important for engine health.
- Durability: You want a turbo that will last. Look for turbos made with strong parts and good warranties.
- Noise Level: Some turbos are louder than others. Think about whether you like that turbo whistle or prefer a quieter ride.
- Bolt-On Design: This means it’s designed to fit easily without a lot of custom work.
Important Materials
The stuff a turbo is made of really matters.
- Compressor Wheel: Often made from strong aluminum alloys. Some high-performance turbos use billet aluminum, which is even tougher and can be shaped for better airflow.
- Turbine Wheel: Usually made from heat-resistant alloys like Inconel. This material can handle the extreme heat from the exhaust.
- Bearings: The turbo spins super fast, so good bearings are key. Many performance turbos use ball bearings for smoother operation and faster spool.
- Housing: The outside parts are typically made of cast iron, which is strong and can handle heat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one turbo better than another?
Things That Make it Better:
- Precision Balancing: When the turbo’s spinning parts are perfectly balanced, it runs smoother and lasts longer.
- High-Flow Design: A turbo designed to let more air in and out will make more power.
- Quality Seals: Good seals prevent oil leaks and keep exhaust gases where they belong.
- Reputable Brand: Sticking with well-known brands often means better quality and customer support.
Things That Can Lower Quality:
- Cheap Materials: Using lower-quality metals can lead to quicker wear and tear.
- Poor Manufacturing: Badly made parts won’t work as well and might fail sooner.
- Lack of Testing: Turbos that aren’t properly tested before they’re sold can have problems.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people actually use these turbos?
- Daily Driving: Many owners upgrade for a more responsive feel and better power for everyday trips.
- Towing and Hauling: If you pull heavy loads, a turbo upgrade can make a huge difference. It helps your engine breathe better, especially when going uphill.
- Performance Enthusiasts: For those who want maximum power and speed, specific performance turbos are the way to go.
- Off-Roading: Better throttle response and more consistent power delivery are a big plus for off-road adventures.
Choosing the right turbo is exciting! By knowing what to look for, you can make sure your 6.4 Powerstroke gets the upgrade it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main benefits of upgrading my 6.4 Powerstroke turbo?
A: You’ll get more horsepower and torque, better throttle response, and often improved towing performance. Some upgrades can even help with fuel economy.
Q: Will a new turbo void my truck’s warranty?
A: It might. It’s always best to check with your dealership or the turbo manufacturer about warranty implications.
Q: Do I need other parts to install a new turbo?
A: Sometimes. You might need new exhaust pipes, intake piping, or even upgraded injectors and tuning to get the most out of your new turbo.
Q: How much does a turbo upgrade typically cost?
A: Prices can range from a few hundred dollars for a basic upgrade to several thousand for a high-performance twin-turbo setup.
Q: How long does a turbo upgrade take to install?
A: For a single turbo replacement, it can take a few hours. If you’re doing a more complex setup like twins, it could take a full day or more.
Q: Can I install a turbo myself?
A: If you’re mechanically inclined and have the right tools, yes. However, many people prefer to have a professional mechanic do the installation.
Q: What is “turbo lag”?
A: Turbo lag is the delay you feel between stepping on the gas pedal and the turbo starting to produce power.
Q: Are there different types of turbo upgrades for the 6.4 Powerstroke?
A: Yes, there are single turbo upgrades, which replace your stock turbo, and compound or twin turbo systems, which use two turbos working together.
Q: Will a bigger turbo make my truck smoke more?
A: Not necessarily. A well-matched turbo with proper tuning should reduce smoke, especially if your old turbo was worn out.
Q: What is “tuning” and why is it important for a turbo upgrade?
A: Tuning is adjusting your truck’s computer to work correctly with the new turbo. It’s important to optimize performance, keep engine temperatures safe, and prevent damage.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.