Upgrading your 2020 6.7 Cummins turbo can significantly enhance your truck's performance, providing increased horsepower, torque, and overall responsiveness. The 6.7 Cummins engine is renowned for its robustness and reliability, but even this powerhouse can benefit from aftermarket enhancements. Whether you're looking to improve towing capabilities, increase fuel efficiency, or simply add some extra punch to your daily drive, a turbo upgrade is a worthwhile investment. This article will guide you through the essentials of choosing the right turbo upgrade kit for your 2020 6.7 Cummins, covering key considerations, popular options, and what to expect during the installation process.

Understanding Turbo Upgrades for Your 6.7 Cummins

Before diving into specific kits, let's cover some fundamental aspects of turbo upgrades. A turbocharger works by forcing more air into the engine, allowing it to burn more fuel and produce more power. The stock turbo on your 2020 6.7 Cummins is designed to provide a balance of performance, efficiency, and reliability under typical operating conditions. However, it may not be optimized for extreme performance or specific applications like heavy towing or competitive racing. Upgrading the turbo can address these limitations by providing increased airflow, improved response, and higher boost levels.

When considering a turbo upgrade, several factors come into play. The size of the turbo is a primary concern; a larger turbo can deliver more power but may also introduce turbo lag, which is a delay in throttle response at lower RPMs. A smaller turbo, on the other hand, will spool up quickly but may not provide the same peak power gains. The type of turbocharger is another crucial aspect. Options include variable geometry turbos (VGTs), which offer a balance of low-end response and high-end power, and fixed geometry turbos, which are typically simpler and more robust but may require more careful matching to the engine's characteristics. Additionally, the quality of the turbocharger and its components is paramount for ensuring long-term reliability and performance.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Turbo Upgrade Kit

Choosing the right turbo upgrade kit for your 2020 6.7 Cummins involves careful evaluation of your specific needs and goals. Think about how you use your truck: Is it primarily for daily driving, heavy towing, off-road adventures, or competitive performance? Your intended use case will significantly influence the type of turbocharger and supporting modifications you should consider. For example, if you frequently tow heavy loads, you'll want a turbo that provides strong low-end torque and minimizes turbo lag. If you're focused on maximizing horsepower for racing, a larger turbo with higher boost capabilities may be more suitable, although you'll need to address potential trade-offs in low-end response.

Budget is another important consideration. Turbo upgrade kits can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the complexity, quality, and included components. Be sure to factor in the cost of any supporting modifications that may be required, such as upgraded injectors, fuel pumps, and tuning. It's often wise to invest in a higher-quality kit from a reputable manufacturer to ensure reliability and longevity. Skimping on quality can lead to premature failure and costly repairs down the road. Also, research about the warranty. Check if the upgrade affect the car warranty. Sometimes dealerships are very picky about it.

Compatibility with your existing setup is crucial. Ensure that the turbo upgrade kit is specifically designed for your 2020 6.7 Cummins and that it's compatible with any other modifications you've already made to your truck. Some kits may require additional modifications or adjustments to ensure proper fitment and performance. It's always a good idea to consult with a qualified diesel mechanic or performance specialist to verify compatibility and get recommendations based on your specific setup.

Popular Turbo Upgrade Options for the 2020 6.7 Cummins

Several reputable manufacturers offer turbo upgrade kits for the 2020 6.7 Cummins, each with its own strengths and features. BorgWarner is a well-known name in the turbocharger industry, offering a range of options from mild to wild. Their drop-in replacement turbos are a popular choice for those seeking a moderate performance boost without extensive modifications. These turbos typically offer improved airflow and response compared to the stock unit, making them a great option for daily driving and towing.

Garrett is another leading manufacturer of high-performance turbochargers. Their GT series turbos are known for their advanced aerodynamics and efficient designs, providing excellent power gains and improved throttle response. Garrett offers a variety of turbo sizes and configurations to suit different performance goals, from street-friendly upgrades to all-out racing applications. Steed Speed is also a popular option. Also ensure to check reviews and what people say about their product. This will help you choose the best option possible.

BD Diesel specializes in diesel performance products and offers a range of turbo upgrade kits for the 6.7 Cummins. Their kits often include additional components like upgraded exhaust manifolds and intercooler piping, providing a comprehensive solution for improving airflow and performance. BD Diesel turbos are known for their durability and reliability, making them a popular choice for heavy-duty applications.

When evaluating different turbo upgrade kits, pay close attention to the specifications and features. Look for information on the turbo's compressor and turbine wheel sizes, as well as its A/R ratio (a measure of the turbine housing's size). These specifications will give you an idea of the turbo's performance characteristics and how it will respond under different driving conditions. Also, consider any included features like billet compressor wheels, ceramic ball bearings, and wastegate actuators, which can further enhance performance and reliability.

Installation and Supporting Modifications

Installing a turbo upgrade kit on your 2020 6.7 Cummins can range from a relatively straightforward bolt-on procedure to a more involved process requiring specialized tools and expertise. Drop-in replacement turbos are typically the easiest to install, as they're designed to fit in the stock turbo's location without significant modifications. However, even with a drop-in turbo, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and ensure that all connections are properly tightened and sealed.

More complex turbo upgrades may require modifications to the exhaust manifold, intercooler piping, or other components. In some cases, you may need to fabricate custom brackets or modify existing parts to achieve proper fitment. If you're not comfortable performing these types of modifications yourself, it's best to enlist the help of a qualified diesel mechanic or performance specialist.

In addition to the turbocharger itself, several supporting modifications may be necessary to maximize the performance and reliability of your upgraded setup. Upgraded fuel injectors can provide the additional fuel needed to support higher boost levels, while an upgraded fuel pump can ensure a consistent fuel supply under demanding conditions. A high-flow air intake system can improve airflow to the turbo, further enhancing performance. Also, an aftermarket tuner or programmer is typically required to recalibrate the engine's computer for the new turbo. The tuner optimizes the air/fuel ratio, timing, and other parameters to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential engine damage.

Expected Performance Gains and Considerations

The performance gains you can expect from a turbo upgrade on your 2020 6.7 Cummins will vary depending on the specific kit you choose and the extent of supporting modifications. A mild drop-in turbo upgrade can typically add 50-100 horsepower and a similar amount of torque, while more aggressive kits can deliver gains of 200 horsepower or more. However, it's important to remember that these are just estimates, and actual results may vary based on your specific setup and tuning.

Improved throttle response and reduced turbo lag are other benefits you can expect from a turbo upgrade. A more efficient turbocharger will spool up more quickly, providing instant power when you need it. This can be particularly beneficial for towing heavy loads or navigating challenging terrain. Additionally, an upgraded turbo can often improve fuel efficiency, especially when combined with proper tuning and driving habits.

However, it's also important to be aware of the potential downsides of a turbo upgrade. Increased stress on the engine and drivetrain is a primary concern, especially with high-performance kits. Upgrading the turbo can put more strain on the engine's internal components, such as the pistons, connecting rods, and crankshaft. It can also stress the transmission, axles, and other drivetrain components. To mitigate these risks, it's essential to choose a turbo upgrade that's appropriate for your engine's capabilities and to ensure that all supporting components are in good condition. Also, consider using the best oil in the market to have the best performance.

Increased exhaust emissions is another potential downside. Upgrading the turbo can alter the engine's combustion characteristics, potentially leading to higher levels of pollutants in the exhaust. To address this issue, you may need to install additional emissions control devices or recalibrate the engine's computer to optimize combustion efficiency. Always check local regulations regarding emissions standards before making any modifications to your vehicle.

Conclusion

A turbo upgrade for your 2020 6.7 Cummins can be a rewarding investment, providing significant gains in power, torque, and overall performance. By carefully considering your specific needs and goals, choosing the right turbo upgrade kit, and ensuring proper installation and supporting modifications, you can transform your truck into a true powerhouse. Remember to prioritize quality, compatibility, and reliability, and always consult with qualified professionals to ensure the best possible results. With the right turbo upgrade, you'll be able to tackle any challenge with confidence and enjoy the full potential of your 6.7 Cummins engine. Don't forget to enjoy the process and unleash the power within your ride, guys! Choose wisely and happy upgrading!