Racing Turbocharger Wastegates

A wastegate is a valve that limits the quantity of exhaust gases going to the turbine. Essentially, it's needed to protect the engine and turbocharger from overload and failure. When the powerplant is not subjected to high loads, the wastegate remains closed, but when exhaust pressure exceeds the value set by its inner spring, the wastegate automatically opens and directs the surplus fumes to the exhaust system via a bypass channel. This way, the maximum turbine speed and, respectively, power boost are limited, but you can be sure that your turbocharged motor runs within its capabilities even when you push the pedal to the metal. Meanwhile, some modern turbo systems don't need a wastegate, for instance, if a variable-geometry turbine housing helps to provide the needed protection level.

There are two main types of wastegates, internal and external ones. The former can be the component of the turbo itself. The latter can be installed externally as part of the engine modification project, in order to control the power boost of a high-performance engine equipped with an aftermarket turbo kit. Many tuners recommend using an external wastegate in all cases when the motor makes over 400 hp. Yet, a more powerful engine doesn't imply selecting a bigger wastegate by default, as it may reduce an expected power gain; actually, its optimal size depends on the desired boost pressure.

Our online store offers a wide assortment of racing turbocharger wastegates designed for extreme use. The aftermarket companies we partner with use the finest materials and implement all possible solutions to make their heavy-duty products reliable and long-lasting: reinforced actuator diaphragms, stainless steel valve seats, bushings, and actuator springs, aluminum actuators, and so on. The operation of these parts remains stable at very high temperatures and pressures. Browse our catalog and select the wastegate that suits your equipment and the required characteristics best.