
How much HP can a TDI engine put out?
Our ALH (90hp) TDIs can be pushed to just under 200hp with major mods (~$3000). What would stop TDI from producing torque all the way to redline?
What is the HP formula for a diesel engine?
This formula HP = TQ * RPM/5252 really applies to any engine you can imagine, gas turbine, steam, gasoline IC and yes even diesel! Actually that formula is a simple physics formula P = tau x omega, omega in rad/sec and tau in N*m that has been "butchered" to use HP, RPM and lb-ft torque.
How much more power does a bigger turbo mean?
In 1.8T HP is just a matter of a turbo size, torque is pretty much limited to around 280tq, use bigger turbo and you make torque at higher RPM, thus making more power. I would think same applies to TDI, unless I missed something.
How do PLUSPLUS diesels make all their HP?
Plus diesels make all their HP through very High Torque, since they never reach 5252RPM (TQ=HP) and in most cases CLUTCH is a limiting factor. I think main reason diesel teams DNF at Le Mans is due to clutch failure.

How to choose a turbo?
Best way to choose a turbo is to first identify your goal for increased power. Keep in mind that many tuners can improve HP and torque by 30% with a chip alone.
How to replace turbo?
Deciding whether to replace your turbo with another one just like it or to upgrade can be a complex decision. Or, it might be easy, because there may not be a larger turbo available that will easily fit your TDI. If there are upgrades available for our car, you should consider: 1 A bigger turbo may not provide more power unless you make other upgrades (chip tuning, more fuel, better breathing) 2 Bigger turbos may require supporting hardware for an easy install that can add to the replacement cost 3 With larger turbos many expensive modifications may be required to take full advantage of the turbo’s potential
What mods can I use on a TDI?
If you’ve made other mods to your TDI including air handling (intake and exhaust) intercooling, fueling (bigger nozzles or higher pressure injection pump), and tuning and want more than the turbos listed above can provide, there are more options.
Is the VW 1Z a turbo?
These early TDIs had wastegate turbos in the US, not the variable vane turbos that are on all later VW TDIs. These two engines are nearly identical, but the 1Z has a Garrett turbo, the AHU has a Borg-Warner. The turbos are interchangeable. Like the B5.5 Passat, these turbos are separate from the manifold.
Do bigger turbos require hardware?
Bigger turbos may require supporting hardware for an easy install that can add to the replacement cost. With larger turbos many expensive modifications may be required to take full advantage of the turbo’s potential. For example, a VNT-17 on an A4 TDI is a solid, well known upgrade.
Is the KP-39 turbo bigger than the VNT-15?
This turbo is physically smaller than the VNT-15, but works exceptionally well in both stock and chip-tuned TDIs. 150 HP/240 lb/ft. is possible with this turbo and the right tune. The KP-39 does seem more prone to boost spikes than the VNT-15, especially in modified cars.
Does the 2012 Passat have an aftermarket turbo?
For others, there are many. Let’s deal with the ones where choice is limited first. The NMS Chassis Passat (engine code CKRA, 2012+) does not have an aftermarket option. This turbo has also been known to fail, so much so that VW has extended its warranty option on the turbocharger to 10 years or 120,000 miles.
