Diesel Tuner's Blog

Stock Duramax Turbo Upgrades!

Duramax owners are generally proud of how their stock turbos perform.  They spool quickly, run hard and are capable of over 500 RWHP (once you tune it and make a few supporting modifications to handle the power).  However, after driving your truck around 520 RWHP for a while, the addiction will creep in and you may find yourself shopping for more power.  We all do it!  For some, it may not even be about more power, it may be about EGT control under load, or it may just be the factory turbo had an issue and needs to be replaced.  If you are anything like me, you will not want to replace it with the factory components if there is an upgraded, after market, charger available. 

Stage 1 (~430RWHP)- (~430RWHP)- This set of modifications maximizes the value and reliability per dollar on a truck with a stock transmission.  Reliable power levels up to 430rwhp can be achieved with this set of parts.  The  factory transmission parts are the limiting factor.

 Includes:

• Fuel system (suggested) - FASS 150
• Tuning: Stock trans EFILive Tuning / SPADE Jack

Stage 2 (~530RWHP) (~530RWHP) -This set of modifications maximizes the value and reliability per dollar on a truck with a built transmission.  Reliable power levels up to 530rwhp can be achieved with this set of parts.  The  factory turbocharger is the limiting factor. We highly recommend gauges with this setup, as it’s limited turbocharger capacity means it has the potential to run high EGT’s which (left unchecked) can cause engine damage.