Upgrading My 3.5 EcoBoost Turbo - What Are the Best Options?

Performance and Tuning
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I’ve been considering an upgrade for my 3.5L EcoBoost turbo and would love to get some insights from those who have been through the process. It seems like there are a lot of options out there, and I want to make sure I choose the right one for performance and reliability.

Key Points to Discuss:

  • Aftermarket Turbo Choices: What brands do you recommend? Are there specific models that offer better performance?
  • Installation Guidance: Is this something I can tackle on my own, or do I need a professional? Any tips or resources for a DIY installation?
  • Tuning: After upgrading the turbo, do I need to change my tuning? What are the best options for tuning to maximize my gains?
  • Realistic Performance Gains: What kind of horsepower improvement can I expect with a turbo upgrade?
  • Additional Modifications: Are there other modifications I should consider to complement the turbo upgrade?

I’m excited to hear about your experiences and advice. Let’s share any tips or lessons learned!

4 Likes
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Upgrading the turbo on your 3.5 EcoBoost can definitely yield noticeable power gains. I’ve seen some users reporting increases of up to 100 hp with the right setup! Just make sure to check your intercooler as well.

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Absolutely! I upgraded mine to a Stage 2 turbo and not only did I feel a power increase, but my fuel efficiency improved as well. A win-win!

7 Likes
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That’s great to hear, kathryn69! I’m curious about your dyno results. How much torque were you able to reach after the upgrade?

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I hit around 450 lb-ft after my upgrade! It’s a beast now. Just make sure to tune the engine properly to complement the new turbo.

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What kind of tune did you go with, heather74? I’ve heard mixed reviews on some tunes. Some say it affects reliability.

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Interesting point! I went with a custom tune from a reputable shop, and I haven’t had any issues. Just make sure they know the 3.5 EcoBoost well!

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Just a heads up, reliability also depends on the turbo longevity. I’ve heard some aftermarket turbos have a mixed reputation, so be cautious about the brand you choose.

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Good point, david77. I’ve done some research, and brands like BorgWarner seem to have positive feedback. Anyone else had experiences with different brands?

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I had a great experience with Garrett turbos. They’re solid, and the power gains were impressive. Just ensure everything is well installed to avoid future headaches!

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Add me to the Garrett fan club! Just be prepared for some noise. My car sounds like a jet now, in the best way possible! Who doesn’t love that turbo spool?

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Loving the jet comparison, brandonlester! :joy: I’m also wondering about efficiency improvements. Has anyone noticed better fuel economy with their upgrades?

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Great question! I’ve seen some people say they improved fuel economy by 2-3 mpg. It all depends on driving habits after the upgrade, though.

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True! I’ve found that I tend to drive a bit more aggressively after upgrading, so my mpg hasn’t improved. Oops!

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No judgment here, cmay! Just enjoy the ride! Have you thought about tuning it back for better fuel economy or just going full thrill ride? :smile:

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Honestly, I’m all about the thrill! If I can get a turbo that sounds amazing and makes my car fast, I’m all in!

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That’s the spirit, ffernandez! Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility… to have fun! :joy:

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Upgrading your 3.5 EcoBoost can be a blast! I’ve seen great results with the BorgWarner turbos. They provide excellent flow and spool up quickly. Just make sure your exhaust and intake systems are compatible!

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Absolutely, BorgWarner is solid! I’ve also heard Vivid Racing offers some robust options but they might require a bit more installation work.

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If you’re looking for performance, the Precision Turbos are hard to beat. They are generally compatible with existing components and offer great tuning potential!