BD Upgraded Turbo Kits: The 6.7L Cummins Workhorse

If your Ram’s turbo is getting lazy, the exhaust brake feels weaker, or EGTs creep up under tow, you’re in the sweet spot for a smarter upgrade—not just a replacement. Below, we break down BD’s drop-in stock turbos, our Screamer VGT upgrades, when to add a manifold, and the simple supporting mods that keep your 6.7L cool and responsive.

Ram’s variable-geometry turbo (VGT) is the reason these trucks tow so well: quick spool for low-rpm torque and a built-in exhaust brake for grade control. The catch? Years of heat, soot, and heavy trailers slow everything down. So when it’s time to service or replace, you get to choose: go stock-fresh for minimum downtime, or step into a Screamer for quicker spool, cooler EGTs, and 50-state legal power headroom.

Stock vs. Screamer: Which is Right for Your Ram?

Why BD Screamer VGT Feels Stronger Everywhere

The Screamer keeps the factory-style VGT (and exhaust brake) but swaps in a 64.5mm billet 7+7 compressor and a QST 70mm 12-blade turbine with roughly 15% lower moment of inertia. Translation: it lights faster, holds EGTs down on grades, and still drops right into the stock location. Both generations are 50-state legal, actuator-calibrated, and VSR balanced out of the box.

• Supports mods up to ~690 HP with the right fueling and airflow.
• Noticeably better hill manners vs. tired OE units—especially with the manifold package.
• Keeps your exhaust brake—one reason a VGT is still the best option for work trucks.

The Lineup at a Glance

• Stock Replacement Turbos: ’07.5–’18 • ’19–’24 — drop in, actuator included & calibrated; VSR balanced.
• Screamer VGT Upgrades: ’07.5–’18 • ’19–’24 — 50-state legal, faster spool, better EGT control.
• Turbo + Manifold Packages: ’13–’18 • ’19–’24 — thick-wall, pulse-divided, EGR-compatible manifolds with pre-drilled EGT port.

Supporting Mods That Make Turbos Shine

You don’t need a laundry list—just the right ones. Start here:

• EGT Monitoring: Both manifold packages are pre-drilled for a pyrometer—use it to protect pistons and keep power repeatable on long grades.
• Transmission Temps: A hotter 68RFE will slip sooner. Improve cooler flow with the BD 68RFE Thermostat Bypass, and if you feel lock-up shudder, step up to BD’s Stock-Plus 68RFE Package. For the why, read our 68RFE Comprehensive Analysis.
• Air Leaks & Boots: A tiny charge-air leak can feel like “lag.” Fresh clamps/boots make a big difference after a turbo swap.

VGT vs. Fixed-Geometry: A Real-World View

Fixed-geometry (S300-style) can push bigger peak numbers, but for mixed-use trucks the tradeoffs are real: slower off-boost response and no native exhaust brake. A VGT with the right wheel set gives you daily manners and mountain control. That’s why most workhorses stay VGT—and why the Screamer exists.

Install Time, Warranty & Compliance

• Install: Turbo only ~6h 36m; add time for manifold packages.
• Warranty: Stock replacements 12-mo parts; Screamer & packages 24-mo parts.
• Compliance: Screamer SKUs are 50-state legal (CARB EO on the product page). Drop-ins retain emissions equipment and exhaust-brake function.

FAQ

Do I need tuning for a Screamer?
No. It’s designed to drop in and run on stock calibration. Mild tuning and healthy fuel supply help you reach the upper capability.

Will my factory exhaust brake still work?
Yes. VGT-based BD turbos keep OEM brake logic and performance—one of the biggest advantages over fixed-geometry swaps.

How much power can a Screamer support?
With proper supporting mods, up to ~690 HP. For towing, prioritize EGTs and transmission health over peak dyno numbers.