Home built rear mounted turbo ?????

[6oneimpala]

I am considering putting a rear mounted turbo on my 63 nova, reason being that I have a 5.3 out of a 2001 Chevy Silverado, that I would like to leave as close to stock as possible except the whole 10 to 20lbs of boost thing. The reason I like the rear mounted location is ease of installation, normal headers, no intercooler ect. What all would I need as far as wastegates and componets like that to get this working. Any opinions would be nice, I really think that this would work and not cost a arm and a leg.

[V8bug]

To start with I am no turbo expert, although someday I hope to be, but I personal don't like the idea of a rear mounted turbo for a couple reasons.

First off the oil issue, you would have to have engine oil go too the turbo and then drain into some tank and then be pumped back to the engine. That does not quite fit the KISS law to me.

And secondly, if I am not mistaken, my thermodynamic class tought me that the turbo is using thermal energy from the exhaut gases to transform into work to spin the compressor and make boost. As soon as the exhaust leaves the engine it starts to cool, by the rear of the car you could almost put our hand on the exhaust pipe, meaning there would be less energy then near the engine. I guess you could insulate the intire exhaust system to help?

I knwo there is companies out there making rear mount turbo setups and they are making proven Hp gains. If it were me and I was going to dump the $ into a turbo setup I would put it under the hood. Not only would the plumbing be easier, in theory it would be more efficent. Not to mention I would look a whole lot cooler!!!

[RickM415]

one thing i didnt really like about a rear mounted turbo was the location of the air filter ....how aboout when it rains ???????? no thanks

[hotwheels]

i would think you could get away with a 60-1 turbo, a good 35 to 38mm wastegate, and a turbonetic's bov.........you will also need to look at an external oil system in order to properly oil the turbo itself.....

I think it is a great idea and it should be fairly cheap to build........will surely add some power to your ride. Let me know if you need any other info on building the system, i will gladly help in any way......

[Boxer]

Rear mounted turbos are like getting you girls breast implants put in her ass. They don't please you anymore and they look stupid.

If you want to keep the turbo/s looking subtle, run a nice low-mount manifold and make up a nice neat looking heat shield. From what I saw in the US, cops would probably never look under your hood anyway... unless you're driving a lowered DeSol with Altezza tail lights

[T Bell]

turbos are run off of heat ? the exhaust flow is what makes them spool. Besides keeping the filter clean and the oiling, I don't see much else. It is a cool design because it basically uses your exhaust pipe as the intercooler.