How to Pick the Right Turbo for Your Cummins

This episode of the Power Driven Podcast brings the crew together for hands-on dyno testing, shop talk, and some real-world lessons on Cummins turbo setups. The guys focus on VP44 performance and show why small changes in airflow can make a big difference in how a truck drives and tows. It’s the kind of episode that speaks to blue-collar diesel enthusiasts who want real answers about turbo upgrades, not just internet opinions. The baseline testing with the HX35 and HY35 showed very little difference, but when the Aggressor 60/64 was bolted on, things started to shift. Horsepower gains were modest on paper, about 10 to 11 over stock, but the real story was in how the truck carried power through the pull. With the stock charger, boost topped out at 26 psi, while the 60/64 held strong at 35 psi without choking out. That meant cooler, more controlled power and a truck that didn’t fall flat when asked to work . The guys also cover installation details that matter. The factory manifold only has two studs, while the upgraded turbo expects four. That makes a three-piece manifold a smart supporting upgrade since stock manifolds are prone to cracking once heat builds. They also point out the benefit of a stainless steel elbow and proper clamps, which not only flow better but hold up to the extra stress that comes with higher boost. These are the small details that keep a build reliable in the long run . On the dyno, the numbers told the story. The 60/64 maintained torque more consistently across the range, showed a healthier boost-to-drive ratio, and simply made the truck feel stronger under load. Even when gate settings were adjusted, the upgraded charger proved it could hold boost without the heat issues that plague factory turbos when pushed too hard. For towing or daily use, that’s the kind of difference you can feel in the seat, not just see on a graph . For diesel performance fans, this episode blends dyno data, hands-on testing, and plenty of shop-floor honesty. If you’re weighing turbo upgrades for a VP44 Cummins, the guys give you a clear picture of what to expect with an Aggressor 60/64 compared to stock. It’s practical knowledge you can take straight to your own build. If you’re into diesel performance, Power Driven Diesel, Cummins upgrades, VP44 tuning, dyno testing, turbo swaps, drag racing, and real truck builds, this episode is packed with useful takeaways. Subscribe to the Power Driven Podcast, follow along for more dyno-backed insights, and check out Power Driven Diesel for the parts and knowledge that keep your build running strong. Power Driven Diesel is a specialty performance shop engaged in the engineering and development of high-performance turbo diesel technologies. Contact Us: 435-962-9555 info@powerdrivendiesel.com https://powerdriven.com https://www.facebook.com/powerdrivendiesel/ https://www.instagram.com/powerdrivendiesel