Turbonator® VGT Upgrades
Turbonator VGT Upgrades for 6.7L Cummins
Enhanced Variable Geometry Performance for Daily Drivers & Towers
The DPS Turbonator VGT series represents our enhanced take on variable geometry turbo technology for 2007.5-2018 6.7L Cummins engines.
Built with upgraded internal components, improved actuator reliability, and optimized vane geometry, Turbonator VGTs deliver better performance and longer service life compared to stock replacements—while maintaining full emissions compatibility, exhaust brake function, and factory-like drivability.
Enhanced Durability
Upgraded bearings and components for extended life
Better Performance
Improved vane geometry and actuator response
Emissions Friendly
Works with EGR, DPF, and all factory systems
Drop-In Fitment
Direct replacement, maintains all OEM features
Planning a full system? Explore Cummins Exhaust Manifolds, 3rd Gen Swap Kits, Add-A-Turbo Kits, and S400 Single Turbos.
Perfect For: 6.7L Cummins owners who want better-than-stock performance and reliability without sacrificing emissions compliance, tow/haul mode, or exhaust brake functionality.
Turbonator® VGT Upgrade FAQs
Turbonator® VGTs are enhanced-performance VGT turbos—not just stock replacements.
Key improvements over stock VGT:
- Upgraded internal components: Better bearings, stronger actuator mechanisms, improved seals for longer service life
- Optimized vane geometry: Enhanced vane design for better spool characteristics and airflow efficiency
- Improved actuator: More reliable VGT actuator with better response and longevity
- Better quality control: More stringent manufacturing tolerances than typical OEM replacements
- Performance-oriented design: Engineered for 400-500+ HP capability vs. stock's conservative ratings
Compare to basic stock replacement:
- Stock replacement: Just restores factory performance, similar durability concerns as original
- Turbonator: Noticeably better spool, supports more power, lasts longer, better build quality
Yet maintains all OEM features: Emissions compatibility, tow/haul mode, exhaust brake, factory-like drivability.
Turbonator® VGTs support 400-500+ HP with proper tuning and supporting modifications.
Power ranges by model:
- Turbonator® 300 Series: 400-475 HP (excellent for daily drivers and moderate towing)
- Turbonator® 400 Series: 475-550+ HP (heavy towing, performance-focused builds)
Supporting mods for these power levels:
- Essential: Quality tuning matched to VGT, 4" turbo-back exhaust
- Recommended for 450+ HP: Upgraded intercooler, lift pump, EGR delete or upgrade (where legal)
- Required for 500+ HP: Injector upgrades, possibly CP3 pump work, transmission upgrades
Real-world performance gains:
- Stock 6.7L: ~350 HP, 650 lb-ft → Turbonator with tuning: 425-475 HP, 850-950 lb-ft
- Noticeable improvement in throttle response, towing capability, and passing power
- 150-200°F cooler EGTs when towing heavy loads
Yes—Turbonator VGTs are designed to maintain full emissions compatibility.
Works with all factory emissions systems:
- EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation): VGT controls backpressure for proper EGR function
- DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter): Maintains heat generation needed for DPF regeneration
- SCR/DEF system: No interference with selective catalytic reduction
- Emissions sensors: All factory sensors (boost, exhaust temp, NOx) work normally
Street-legal in emissions-regulated states:
- California and CARB states: Turbonator VGTs work with intact emissions systems
- Maintains on-road legality when used with emissions-compliant tuning
- No modification to emissions equipment required
⚠️ Important: While the turbo itself is emissions-compatible, your tuning must also be emissions-compliant to remain street-legal. Work with tuners who understand emissions-on programming.
Yes—100% of factory functionality is retained.
Features that continue working perfectly:
- Exhaust brake: VGT closes vanes to create backpressure—critical for controlling speed on descents
- Tow/haul mode: Transmission shift logic and VGT control work exactly as factory designed
- Engine braking: VGT-based compression braking remains fully functional
- Cruise control: VGT adjusts seamlessly to maintain speed under varying loads
- Factory diagnostics: All OBD-II systems and dealer scan tools work normally
Why this matters for towing:
- Exhaust brake can provide 60-70% of braking force needed on steep descents
- Saves service brakes from overheating and premature wear
- Essential safety feature for mountain towing, heavy RVs, hot-shot work
This is a major advantage over fixed-geometry turbos (S300, S400 singles), which eliminate VGT-based exhaust brake and engine braking.
Turbonator VGTs and HE-series VGTs are similar concepts with slightly different approaches:
Similarities:
- Both use variable geometry technology
- Both maintain emissions compatibility and factory features
- Both support 400-550 HP range
- Both are direct bolt-in replacements for stock 6.7L VGTs
Key differences:
- Turbonator: DPS-enhanced design with upgraded internals, optimized for balanced performance and durability
- HE-series: Holset-based enhanced VGTs, proven OEM-style design with performance upgrades
- Turbonator: Typically includes additional quality control and DPS-specific enhancements
- HE-series: More closely follows Holset OEM design philosophy
Which to choose?
- Both are excellent options for VGT upgrades
- Turbonator offers DPS's unique enhancements and quality standards
- HE-series offers proven Holset engineering legacy
- Either will significantly outperform stock VGT turbos
Contact our tech team to discuss which VGT option best fits your specific truck, power goals, and budget.
Installation is straightforward—similar to replacing any stock VGT turbo.
Installation time:
- DIY with mechanical experience: 4-6 hours
- Professional installation: 3-4 hours ($500-800 labor)
Why installation is easier than fixed-geometry turbos:
- Direct bolt-in: Mounts exactly where stock turbo was located
- Same oil connections: Uses factory oil feed and drain locations (no custom lines needed)
- Factory downpipe compatible: Often works with stock or aftermarket downpipes without modification
- Electrical plug-and-play: VGT actuator connector plugs into factory harness
- No custom fabrication: Everything fits using factory mounting points
Installation steps (overview):
- Disconnect batteries and remove intake system
- Disconnect VGT actuator electrical connector
- Remove oil feed and drain lines
- Unbolt downpipe from turbo
- Remove turbo mounting bolts and remove old turbo
- Install new Turbonator VGT (reverse removal process)
- Perform VGT actuator relearn procedure (via scan tool or tuner)
Tools needed: Socket set, wrenches, jack and stands, penetrating oil, torque wrench. No special tools required.
Our kits include detailed photo instructions and we offer phone/email support during installation.
