When it comes to turbochargers for diesel trucks, Stealth Turbos have made a name for themselves by offering performance, reliability, and quality upgrades across the board. Whether you’re driving a 6.6L Duramax, 6.7L Powerstroke or a 6.7L Cummins, Stealth turbos can provide solutions for a multitude of different needs and wants—from stock replacements to high-performance setups. In this blog post, we’ll break down the key differences between Stealth’s STR, Mach 1, and Mach 2 line's of turbochargers and help you decide which one is the best fit for your driving needs.
Stealth - STR
Affordable Performance for Daily Drivers and Towers
Who’s It For?
The Stealth STR is perfect for those who are looking to replace their stock turbo with an affordable and reliable upgrade. Ideal for daily drivers, towers, or anyone looking to keep their truck's drivability intact while gaining a boost in power and performance with or without the addition of tuning. Whether you're hauling a load, pulling a trailer, or simply looking for a more reliable turbo, the STR is designed to deliver improved reliability and performance without requiring custom tuning or modifications.
What Sets It Apart?
The STR turbo is Stealth’s entry-level offering, yet it doesn’t skimp on quality or performance! Here are the key upgrades that differentiate it from a stock turbo:
- 6- Blade Billet Compressor Wheel: An extended tip billet compressor wheel helps optimize airflow for better efficiency and power.
- Custom-Cut Exhaust Housing: Designed for improved exhaust flow, helping to reduce turbo lag and increase spool-up time.
- Upgraded Turbine: A more durable and efficient turbine wheel than the stock option, handling more airflow without sacrificing reliability.
With a maximum power potential of 650hp, the STR offers an affordable and reliable solution that is perfect for those looking to boost their truck's performance without going overboard. Plus, the lightweight rotating assembly ensures that spool-up remains quick, and throttle response that feels identical to stock.
Key Features:
- Up to 650HP of airflow
- No custom tuning required: It works perfectly with stock tuning but can be paired with custom tuning for even greater performance.
- Improved EGT Control: Better temperature management, especially beneficial for those towing heavy loads or driving in tough conditions.
- Stock-like spool-up and drivability: If you're used to your stock turbo's response, you’ll appreciate the near-stock feel with a noticeable performance bump.
Why Choose the STR?
If you’re looking for improved reliability, lower EGTs while towing, a stock turbo replacement that doesn't require tuning but can shine even brighter with it, the Stealth STR gives you better performance without sacrificing drivability or throttle response. Its stock appearance makes it an ideal choice for those who want to avoid attention like during vehicle inspections.
Stealth - Mach 1
A Perfect Middle Ground Between Power And Drivability
Who’s It For?
The Mach 1 series of Stealth turbochargers are designed for customers who want a substantial power boost without sacrificing the stock-like drivability of their truck. With up to 700hp of potential power, these turbos are perfect for performance enthusiasts and hardcore towers who need that extra bit of power for tackling challenging towing scenarios, while also keeping their truck responsive and efficient.
What Sets It Apart?
Compared to the STR, the Mach 1 turbo includes several performance upgrades that boost power and responsiveness:
- 63-64mm 11-Blade Billet Compressor Wheel: Larger than the STR’s, providing more airflow for increased horsepower.
- HFV Technology (High Flow Vane): Designed to allow for quicker spool-up and more efficient airflow across the operating range.
- Upgraded High-Flow Turbine Wheel: Designed to handle increased airflow and provide more power while managing temperatures.
- Custom-Cut Compressor Cover and Exhaust Housing: Optimized to improve efficiency, reduce turbo lag, and keep EGTs in check.
The Mach 1 turbo’s quick spool-up and improved boost pressure ratio make it a great middle ground between the stock response of the STR and the more aggressive power of the Mach 2. This makes it a top choice for heavy-duty towing or those who push their trucks through performance demands but still want excellent drivability and safe EGTs.
Key Features:
- Up to 700HP of airflow
- No increase in turbo lag: The Mach 1 offers faster spool-up while maintaining quick throttle response, similar to stock.
- Lower EGTs and better control: Great for towing in high-stress situations.
- Stock-like drivability: Despite the larger compressor and turbine wheels, the Mach 1 maintains an easy-to-drive feel with improved performance.
Why Choose the Mach 1?
If you're looking for a solid balance of performance and drivability, or you tow heavy loads regularly, the Mach 1 is the perfect choice. It delivers excellent performance gains while maintaining the essential features of stock turbo responsiveness and reliability.
Stealth - Mach 2
The Ultimate Power Upgrade
Who’s It For?
The Mach 2 turbo is the top-tier performance option in the Stealth lineup. With the potential to support up to 800hp, it’s designed for performance enthusiasts or competition trucks where maximum power output is the goal. This turbo is perfect for those who want the ultimate in drop-in performance without sacrificing the stock turbo appearance.
What Sets It Apart?
The Mach 2 turbo takes everything Stealth has learned about performance and reliability and ramps it up to the next level:
- 66-67mm 11-Blade Billet Compressor Wheel: Even larger than the Mach 1, offering significant airflow for maximum performance.
- Oversized High-Flow Turbine Wheel: A larger turbine helps ensure more power, particularly in higher RPM ranges.
- HFV Technology: This ensures better spool-up times, more efficient airflow, and better control over exhaust temperatures.
- Custom-Cut Exhaust Housing and Compressor Cover: Designed for ultimate performance and minimal turbo lag.
Although the Mach 2 provides incredible power, its larger turbine and rotating assembly has the potential to increase turbo lag. Custom tuning is required to fully optimize the Mach 2 turbo, and specific vane positions must be set for optimal performance.
Key Features:
- Up to 800HP of airflow—the most powerful turbo in the Stealth lineup.
- Improved top-end EGT control: Crucial for keeping exhaust temperatures in check during aggressive driving or high-power pulls.
- Exclusive performance upgrades: Includes the best that Stealth has to offer for maximum power output and efficiency.
- Stock appearance: The Stealth Mach 2 looks just like a factory turbo, making it perfect for those needing a stealthy upgrade.
Why Choose the Mach 2?
If you’re after maximized performance and high power output, the Mach 2 is your go-to choice. However, it’s worth noting that this turbo might not be the best fit for daily driving or towing due to the slightly increased spool time. It’s best suited for enthusiasts who are looking to push their truck to the limit.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Stealth Turbo
The Stealth STR, Mach 1, and Mach 2 turbos each offer unique benefits designed to meet specific needs. Here's a quick summary to help you decide:
- Stealth STR: Best for daily drivers or towers who want affordable and reliable performance with no tuning required. Offering up to 650hp.
- Stealth Mach 1: Ideal for performance enthusiasts and hardcore towers who need 700hp and still want to retain a stock feeling spool-up.
- Stealth Mach 2: For those looking for maximum performance—800hp and the ultimate in power and reliability.
No matter which Stealth turbo you choose, you can be confident that you're getting a high-quality, stock-appearing, and reliable upgrade that’s designed for real-world performance. With the added bonus of 49-state compliance, these turbos offer the perfect balance of power, efficiency, and drivability for any diesel enthusiast.
For more data and comparisons on the Stealth Turbo Line check out these related articles:
