F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Turbo Install Kits (2011–2020) | What’s Included & When to Use
F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Turbo Install Kit: What’s Inside, When to Use It & Shop Tips (2011–2020)
A clean, leak-free turbo install on the 3.5L EcoBoost lives or dies on the small parts—gaskets, O-rings, studs, and one-time-use bolts. This deep dive shows exactly what BD’s kits include for 2011–2016 and 2017–2020, why fresh hardware matters, and how to avoid repeat pulls on higher-mileage trucks.
Kits at a Glance (What You Get)
| Year Range | Kit Link | Core Contents |
|---|---|---|
| 2011–2016 | BD Turbo/Manifold Install Kit (’11–’16) | • 8 coolant fittings • 4 double-ended downpipe studs + 4 M10 nuts • 6 turbocharger mounting bolts (single-use) • Turbo & downpipe gaskets Great add-on to a manifold job or turbo R&R on higher-mileage trucks. |
| 2017–2020 | BD Turbo Install Kit (’17–’20) | • Inlet gaskets: 2017 (L&R) + 2018–20 (L&R) • 2 outlet gaskets • 4 coolant bushings + 10 coolant/oil O-rings + 4 oil drain O-rings • 4 downpipe studs + 4 nuts • 6 turbo mounting bolts (single-use) Replaces OEM bolt P/Ns W715673S900, W719737S900; gasket P/Ns HL3Z-9450-A, HL3Z-9448-C, JL3Z-9450-A. |
Why the “Small Stuff” Matters on EcoBoost Turbos
One-Time-Use Bolts
Turbo mounting bolts are torque-to-yield on many years. Re-using them can cause clamp-load loss, flange leaks, or broken bolts later. The kit includes fresh hardware so your new seals actually seal.
New O-Rings & Bushings
Heat-soaked coolant & oil line seals flatten and harden; tiny weeps become major messes post-service. Replace them while access is wide open.
When You Should Use the Kit
- Exhaust tick, smell, or soot near manifolds/downpipes (pair with BD 3.5L manifold set on ’11–’16).
- Oil mist at turbo center sections or along feed/drain lines (fresh O-rings included in ’17–’20 kit).
- Turbo swap/upgrade—especially if you’re stepping up to BD Screamer drop-ins (’11–’16).
- High mileage (heat-cycled hardware and seals won’t re-seal reliably).
At-a-Glance Install Flow (Overview)
- Disconnect battery, safely raise vehicle, remove under-tray/shields as needed.
- Drain/contain coolant as required. Relieve any residual pressure.
- Remove intake tubes, heat shields, and downpipe hardware. Support exhaust.
- Cap/label oil feed & drain and coolant lines before removal; note clocking/clip orientation.
- Remove turbos and old gaskets/bolts/studs; do not reuse torque-to-yield hardware.
- Install new inlet/outlet gaskets, studs, new turbo bolts, and fresh O-rings/bushings from your BD kit.
- Reconnect lines and downpipes. Torque all fasteners to factory specifications and follow service-manual sequences.
- Refill coolant, prime oil system, check for leaks, and complete a thorough test drive.
Tip: Photograph each connection before disassembly. Replace any brittle vacuum lines or damaged V-band clamps you find along the way.
Signs You’re Due for Seals/Hardware
Often an exhaust leak at the manifold or downpipe—fresh gaskets + studs prevent repeat visits.
Hard O-rings on feed/drain lines. Replace during turbo R&R, not after.
Dried coolant around line bushings points to aged seals—swap them now.
Compatibility & Notes
Related BD Parts & Guides
- BD 3.5L EcoBoost Manifold Set (’11–’16) — addresses warped/flange leaks and improves flow.
- BD Screamer Turbo Upgrades (’11–’16) — drop-in response and power headroom.
- 10R80 RoadMaster (2018–2020) — if your test drive reveals flare/shudder.
FAQ
Do I have to replace the turbo mounting bolts?
Yes—many are single-use. Re-using them risks clamp-load loss and leaks. Both BD kits include new bolts.
Can I reuse coolant and oil line O-rings?
Not recommended. Heat cycles harden seals; reuse can lead to post-install seeps. The ’17–’20 kit bundles all new O-rings/bushings.
Are torque specs included?
Follow the Ford service manual for your exact year and build. Always clean sealing surfaces and tighten in the correct sequence.
Note: Contents and compatibility are summarized for convenience—verify fitment on each product page for your exact VIN and model year.