Turbo Kits | SPELAB

What Is a Turbo Kit and Why Do You Need One?

In modern automotive engineering, a turbocharger is a critical component that significantly enhances engine performance. By using exhaust gases to spin a turbine and force more air into the intake system, turbo kits can greatly improve fuel efficiency, throttle response, and horsepower—especially in diesel engine turbocharger applications.

A turbocharger kit typically includes the turbo unit itself, gaskets, intake/exhaust flanges, and installation hardware. It integrates seamlessly with the vehicle’s intake system to create a complete power-boosting solution. Designed for vehicles such as the 2008-2010 Ford F-250 6.4L Powerstroke and 2018 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins Turbo Diesel, it offers improved towing performance, torque, and engine durability.

For enthusiasts looking to upgrade or commercial users requiring more load capacity, a quality turbo kit isn’t just an enhancement—it’s a necessity for both power and reliability.

How Much Horsepower Can a Turbocharger Add?

The biggest appeal of a turbocharger is the impressive boost in horsepower it delivers. By forcing more compressed air into the engine, a turbo kit increases combustion efficiency and power output. For instance, adding a turbocharger kit to a 2011-2019 Chevrolet Cruze 1.4L engine can result in a 10% to 20% horsepower gain. Likewise, the 2013-2021 Buick Encore 1.4L can benefit from smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency.

In the case of heavy-duty diesel trucks like the 2013 Ram 3500 Cummins Turbo Diesel or 2004.5-2010 Chevy 6.6L Duramax LMM engine, a properly tuned diesel turbo diesel setup can increase power by over 100 horsepower. This is crucial for drivers who tow heavy loads or need superior off-road performance.

Whether your goal is speed or work-ready strength, a high-performance turbocharger kit is the smart upgrade for serious power seekers.

Complete Overview of SPELAB Turbo Kits: Built for Top-Selling Vehicles

SPELAB offers a versatile lineup of high-performance turbo kits, precision-engineered for both diesel and gasoline vehicles. Whether you drive a 2008-2010 Ford F-350 6.4L Powerstroke or a compact 2013-2021 Chevy Trax 1.4L, SPELAB provides vehicle-specific turbocharger kits that are easy to install and performance-focused.

For Ford Super Duty trucks (F-250 to F-550), both high-pressure and low-pressure turbos are available—each suited for different driving demands like towing or urban delivery. For smaller cars like the Sonic or Encore 1.4L, SPELAB’s compact turbos help maximize efficiency and throttle responsiveness.

SPELAB Turbo Kit Quick Reference Table:

Why Choose SPELAB Turbo Kits? Triple Advantage of Power, Durability, and Support

When selecting a turbocharger kit, it’s not just about the horsepower—it’s about build quality, installation ease, and long-term support. SPELAB is dedicated to offering cost-effective, vehicle-specific turbo kits that ensure perfect fitment and serious performance upgrades, whether you drive a 2008-2010 Ford F-250 6.4L Powerstroke or a 2018 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins Turbo Diesel.

Key advantages of SPELAB include:

• OEM-grade casting: Built with high-temp, corrosion-resistant materials for long-lasting durability

• Dynamic balancing: Every turbocharger is finely balanced to minimize vibrations and noise

• Plug-and-play fitment: Engineered to match factory interfaces for a seamless install

• Wide vehicle database: Covers Ford, Chevy, Ram, Buick, and more—excellent compatibility

• Full-service support: Tech consultation, warranty coverage, and installation assistance included

Customer feedback confirms that after upgrading to SPELAB’s diesel turbo diesel systems, vehicles experience noticeably sharper throttle response and superior performance under heavy loads or high-speed cruising.

Recommended Performance Combos: SPELAB Turbo Kit + Supporting Mods

For those aiming to push beyond horsepower alone, SPELAB recommends pairing the Turbocharger Kit with other performance upgrades to build a more responsive, efficient, and durable system. These combinations are optimized for both diesel and turbocharged gas platforms.

Suggested Pairings:

Recommended Vehicles for SPELAB Turbo Kits: Maximize Your Upgrade

Choosing the right turbo kit isn’t just about engine specs—it’s about how you drive and what you demand from your vehicle. Based on real-world customer feedback and testing, the following top models showed the most noticeable performance gains after installing a SPELAB turbocharger kit, especially those running diesel turbo diesel configurations.

Featured Compatible Models:

Each of these vehicles has been tested and optimized by SPELAB engineers to ensure a smooth fit and powerful gains. Whether you’re a custom build enthusiast, a commercial hauler, or an off-road adventurer, SPELAB has the turbocharger kit that fits your needs.

Installation and Maintenance Guide: Keep Your Turbo Running Strong

While SPELAB turbocharger kits are designed for plug-and-play installation, professional help is recommended—especially for complex setups like diesel turbo diesel systems or dual-turbo configurations found in trucks like the 2008-2010 Ford F-450 6.4L Powerstroke.

Installation Tips:

• Inspect the old turbo for signs of oil coking or bent blades to avoid future issues

• Ensure intake and exhaust seals are properly fitted to prevent pressure loss or leaks

• Use recommended oil and coolant to maximize lubrication and thermal management

• For vehicles like the 2013 Ram 3500 Cummins Turbo Diesel, inspect intercooler and exhaust pathways before installation

Maintenance Tips:

• Change oil regularly (full-synthetic diesel oil preferred)

• Let the engine idle for 1–2 minutes after hard driving to allow turbo cooling

• Check turbo shaft play and boost levels every 10,000 km

• Address abnormal sounds or power drops quickly—inspect wheels and bearings

With proper installation and regular maintenance, a SPELAB turbo kit can reliably deliver high performance for over 100,000 km, ensuring fast spool and consistent boost throughout its lifespan.

FAQ

Q1. What’s the default boost pressure on SPELAB turbos? Can it be adjusted?

Most SPELAB turbos ship with a factory setting between 14–18 psi, safe for stock ECU setups. Models with wastegates (mechanical or electronic) can be tuned up to 22–25 psi—notably on products like the HE300WG for Cummins 6.7L.

Q2. Do I need to upgrade fuel injectors or fuel pumps after installation?

On small gas engines like the 1.4L Sonic or Encore, factory fueling systems typically suffice. On diesel platforms such as the Duramax 6.6L LBZ/LMM, pushing boost beyond 22 psi may require high-flow injectors and lift pumps to avoid running lean.

Q3. How can I tell if exhaust backpressure is affecting turbo efficiency?

Symptoms include laggy spool, muffled exhaust, or high EGTs at mid-high RPMs. A 3”+ high-flow intercooler and straight-pipe exhaust are recommended, especially for tuned 2013 Ram 3500 Cummins Turbo Diesel setups.

Q4. Are dual turbo setups (twin/sequential) supported?

Some SPELAB low-pressure turbos (e.g., for Ford 6.4L Powerstroke) are designed for sequential twin turbo setups, running in series with high-pressure units. These configurations benefit from electronic boost control and coordinated fuel tuning.

Q5. How important is EGT monitoring and what’s the best method?

Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) monitoring is essential in diesel builds. We recommend a 4-probe thermocouple with digital display at the exhaust manifold. If temps exceed 1350°F, consider enriching the fuel mixture, upgrading the intercooler, or retarding ignition timing. Many SPELAB turbo kits include pre-drilled EGT sensor ports.