Turbo Supercores

Is your turbine housing fine, but the core of your turbo needs replacing or upgrading? A supercore is the turbo's fully assembled core with bearing housing, shaft and wheels, typically without turbine housing. It is for you if you want to build your turbo to suit your own project.

What does a turbo supercore include?

A supercore combines the bearing housing, shaft, compressor wheel and turbine wheel in one balanced unit. Whether the compressor housing is included, and which turbine housing the core fits, depends on the product, so check the contents for the specific part number. If you need a complete unit, you will find it under complete turbochargers.

How to choose a supercore

The numbers in the product names typically indicate wheel sizes, e.g. 80mm and 110/96 in the BorgWarner S410SX, and they should be considered in the context of your project:

• Power target and desired boost pressure: a larger compressor wheel can move more air, but can also result in slower response.
• The engine's displacement and rev range, which determine where the core works most efficiently.
• The bearing housing material, e.g. aluminium or cast iron, as in the EFR series.
• Turbine housing and flange, which must match the exhaust manifold and frame size, e.g. EFR B1 or B2.

Cores from BorgWarner are available here in the SX, SX-E, SX-R and EFR series, while Garrett is represented by, for example, the G55-1950. Turbosmart is also available in this category.

Installation and maintenance

Replacing a core typically requires a clean oil supply, correct oil return and new gaskets. Debris from a failed turbo in the oil, intercooler or piping can damage the new core, so clean the system before installation. After hard driving, a moment of idling before shutting off can help the bearings cool down. Complete turbos and other parts are found under turbochargers.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a supercore and a complete turbocharger?

A complete turbocharger is supplied as an assembled unit ready for installation. A supercore is the core, typically without turbine housing, so you can reuse or choose a housing that suits your exhaust manifold and your project. Check the contents for the part number.

Can I reuse my old turbine housing?

It may be possible if the housing matches the core's turbine wheel and series, e.g. the same frame size. The housing must be free of cracks and wear. Always check compatibility for the specific part number before buying.

Does the engine need tuning after switching to a larger core?

Typically yes. A core with different wheel sizes changes airflow and boost pressure, so the fuel system and engine management often need to be adjusted. How much depends on the project, and whether the car needs to be approved at inspection depends on the car and the modification.