2005 Mazda Bounty turbo SDX upgrade to larger aftermarket turbo. Help! EEEk!

Orlok

Newbie
Points
3
Location
5022
Car
2005 mazda bounty
Kia ora all!

I've emailed my mechanic regarding upgrading my Mazda to either option A; a 'bolt on' turbo or option B; the far more expensive, 'full revamp' larger aftermarket turbo.

I'm not a mechanic and although reasonably intelligent (hope so), I am finding it difficult to find the answers I need in order to make a rational informed choice of whether to choose A or B;

there are so many questions to ask but essentially my mechanic ( custom car mods specialist) stated to the effect that choosing option B shouldn't cause any undue stresses on the engine, however, at worse case, the head gaskets may become vulnerable....

I am leaning toward option B but I am trying to determine the outcomes and gains from the inputs (cost) akin to a cost: benefits ratio but want to know realistically, what the risks are to my engine (albeit small in my mechanics view) as I don't want the risk of upgrading to option B resulting in expending even more funds to fix the problems as a result of option B..........

My Mazda is running on a standard factory turbo and has been modified with a turbo tap. Earl's Body Shop (Wellington) with: installed rear caddy lights, recessed rear plate, shaved door handles with interior solenoids and has been de-badged with all rails taken off and back bumper removed..........

I've had modifications made to my ute from my mechanic: aftermarket intercooler, after market performance filter, aftermarket full stainless steel 3" exhaust systems, additional replaceable V-band stainless steel side exit exhaust and added catch can system

Although these aftermarket changes have made a substantial difference with a nice deeper exhaust sound and a bit more power I've always wanted to add an aftermarket turbo.

I explained to my mechanic that the main change I wanted to gain is 'sound-wise' with a heavier sound when idle in stationery position and an overall deeper throaty sound, over and above what it is now of which he said will definitely happen with the change in option A and B.

There's also the problem of lag that comes with option B as I understand which is a problem because it's already relatively sluggish off the mark and takes a little time before power kicks in. I'm a bit lost to be honest.

I'm definitely going to have to go in person and chat to him about all of this but I just don't want to ask all possible questions before I make a decision.

I've searched in vain for Mazda ute's similiar to mine that have had upgraded turbo's to get an idea of what the outcome of an upgraded aftermarket turbo would likely be......Any advice, help, links would be appreciated. Ka kite! Cheers!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Sorry for my late reply as I have no knowledge of your model BUT coming from turbos I don't think that adding a larger turbo will alter the exhaust sound .

I have heard that some Mazda turbo cars can go from ZOOM ZOOM to BOOM so for peace of mind I would highly recommend that you rebuild the motor with a forged and balanced bottom end with a MLS head gasket and ARP head studs.
 
Fuelling and timing are always critical when running increased forced induction. As @TCJBOLDIE pointed out making the engine stronger makes a lot of sense. I'd personally drop the compression ratio a little, to give a little more overhead for boost to be added.
 

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