Boosting Your Ford Ranger: A Comprehensive Guide to Hybrid Turbo Upgrades

Boosting Your Ford Ranger: A Comprehensive Guide to Hybrid Turbo Upgrades

Boosting Your Ford Ranger Turbo:- Over the past 15 years, the Ford Ranger has become a staple on Australian roads, renowned for its durability and performance. For enthusiasts looking to extract more power from their Rangers, hybrid turbochargers present an enticing option. This article delves into the benefits of hybrid turbos across various Ranger engine models, examines the power gains relative to investment, and explores suitable injector upgrades to maximize performance.

Ford Ranger Turbo:- Understanding Hybrid Turbochargers

A hybrid turbocharger combines components from different turbo models to optimize performance characteristics. Typically, this involves integrating a larger compressor wheel with a standard turbine housing, resulting in increased airflow and boost pressure without significant turbo lag. The outcome is enhanced power output and improved engine efficiency.

Ford Ranger Engine Lineup (2010-2025)

Over the past decade and a half, the Ford Ranger has been equipped with various engines:

1. 2.5L Duratec Petrol (2010-2011): A reliable engine, though less common in performance modifications due to its naturally aspirated design. Read no turbo means a lot less power, just a dull vehicle, reminds me of a Land Cruiser 80 series.

2. 2.2L Duratorq TDCi Diesel (2011-2022): A turbocharged four-cylinder diesel known for its balance between power and fuel efficiency.

3. 3.2L Duratorq TDCi Diesel (2011-2022): A five-cylinder turbo diesel offering robust torque, popular among towing enthusiasts in Australia.

4. 2.0L EcoBlue Bi-Turbo Diesel (2019-Present): A modern engine featuring sequential turbocharging for improved performance and efficiency. This one has an ad-blue. 

5. 2.3L EcoBoost Petrol (2022-Present): A turbocharged petrol engine delivering impressive power, catering to those seeking petrol alternatives despite the fuel cost.

Assessing Power Gains vs. Investment

The potential power gains from a hybrid turbo upgrade vary across engine models and depend on supporting modifications. Here’s a breakdown:

1. 2.2L Duratorq TDCi Diesel:

Stock Power: Approximately 118 kW and 385 Nm of torque.

Post-Upgrade: With a hybrid turbo, upgraded intercooler, and a professional tune, gains of 20-30% in power and torque are achievable.

Estimated Cost: Hybrid turbo ($2,000-$3,000 subject to turbo manufacturer brand), intercooler ($1,000), tuning ($900-$1250) – totalling around $4,500

Cost per kW Gain: Approximately $120 per kW gained.

2. 3.2L Duratorq TDCi Diesel:

Stock Power: Approximately 147 kW and 470 Nm of torque.

Post-Upgrade: Hybrid turbo setups can yield up-to 200 kW and 600 Nm with supporting modifications.

Estimated Cost: Hybrid turbo ($2,500-$3,000), intercooler ($1,000), exhaust system ($1,000-$1,500 depending on the brand of choice), tuning ($900-$1,250) – totalling around $5,500-$6,000.

Cost per kW Gain: Approximately $100 per kW gained.

3. 2.0L EcoBlue Bi-Turbo Diesel:

Stock Power: 157 kW and 500 Nm of torque.

Post-Upgrade: Upgrades can push outputs to around 190 kW and 570 Nm.

Estimated Cost: Hybrid turbo ($2,800-$3,500), intercooler ($1,200), tuning ($900-$1,250) – totalling around $4,800-$5,500

Cost per kW Gain: Approximately $150 per kW gained.

4. 2.3L EcoBoost Petrol:

Stock Power: Approximately 201 kW and 420 Nm of torque.

Post-Upgrade: Potential to reach 250 kW and 500 Nm with appropriate modifications.

Estimated Cost: Hybrid turbo ($3,000-$3,500), intercooler ($1,200), exhaust system ($1,200), tuning ($800) – totalling around $6,500-$7,000.

Cost per kW Gain: Approximately $150 per kW gained.

Injector Upgrade Options for you Ford Ranger Turbo

To fully capitalize on a hybrid turbo’s capabilities, upgrading fuel injectors is crucial to ensure adequate fuel delivery:

2.2L and 3.2L Duratorq Engines: Upgrading to high-flow injectors, such as those from Bosch or Denso, can support increased fuel demands.

2.0L EcoBlue Engine: Performance injectors from reputable manufacturers can enhance fuel delivery, ensuring optimal combustion.

2.3L EcoBoost Engine: Given its direct-injection system, consider high-flow direct injectors to meet elevated fuel requirements.

Additional Considerations

Professional Tuning: A custom ECU tune is essential to harmonize the upgraded components, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. The reason, we are using $900 to $1,250 for a tune is based on the “who has done the whole job” approach. If we did all the modifications here at “Brisbane Tuning & Turbo” we normally try to provide all our customers with discounts if however, it’s only us who is doing the tune on the Ford Ranger turbo we would charge $1250.

• Supporting Modifications for Ford Ranger Turbo: Enhancements like upgraded intercoolers, exhaust systems, and air intakes can further improve performance and support the hybrid turbo.

• Budgeting: While the initial investment may seem substantial, the performance gains and driving experience enhancements often justify the expenditure. Think about it from the perspective – there is no “Ford Ranger Turbo” like that 🙂

Conclusion

Upgrading your Ford Ranger with a hybrid turbocharger offers a compelling blend of performance enhancement and value. By carefully selecting compatible components and considering necessary supporting modifications, you can achieve significant power gains tailored to your driving preferences. Always consult with automotive professionals to ensure modifications are performed safely and effectively, maximizing the potential of your Ford Ranger.