The real power loss in an older 7.3L isn’t just airflow in—it’s the work the engine wastes pushing exhaust out against backpressure. We addressed that at the turbo. A higher-performance compressor wheel helps move more air, while the revised turbine housing reduces the backpressure the engine sees at any speed or load. That means the turbo takes less horsepower to do its job, so more of that power is available to move the truck. The result is better throttle response, stronger sustained full-power operation, and the option to hold the same speed with less fuel. We also added our Big Head wastegate actuator to raise boost, which matters even more when the truck lives a mile high and needs to pull hard in the mountains.
The segment examines a Ford Excursion turbo upgrade designed to improve more than peak horsepower. Changes to both the compressor and turbine sides are intended to improve throttle response, sustain power under load, and support better fuel economy during cruising and towing.
The compressor side receives a higher-performance compressor wheel designed to move air more effectively.
As part of the complete turbo package, the upgraded wheel supports increased airflow and helps the engine achieve stronger boost and performance across its operating range.
The turbine housing is also changed to improve throttle response and help the engine sustain full power under load.
Rather than focusing solely on peak output, the revised housing changes how the turbocharger responds across different operating conditions, particularly when the engine is working hard for extended periods.
A major benefit of the revised turbo setup is reduced exhaust back pressure.
The engine must use horsepower to push exhaust through the turbine and exhaust system. Reducing that resistance decreases pumping losses, meaning less engine power is consumed simply driving the turbocharger and evacuating exhaust.
Lower back pressure can produce more usable power without requiring additional fuel because less power is being lost to exhaust pumping.
Alternatively, the driver can reduce throttle while maintaining the same road speed. Under those conditions, the reduction in pumping losses can contribute to improved fuel economy.
The turbocharger is also equipped with a Big Head wastegate actuator.
The actuator allows the system to achieve higher boost, complementing the upgraded compressor wheel and revised turbine housing. Together, these components are intended to improve airflow, response, and overall turbocharger performance.
The additional boost capability becomes particularly useful at higher elevations, where reduced atmospheric air density limits the amount of oxygen available to the engine.
At elevations around a mile above sea level, the upgraded turbocharger and wastegate combination helps compensate for thinner air by maintaining stronger boost and engine performance.
