Introducing the SPE S300 Ball Bearing Turbocharger

Since debuting the SPE Emperor Turbocharger System we have been working on a more robust S300 for quicker spooling, reliability, and overall durability. We have spent many months testing this on the dyno and in real world applications. Our test platforms, ranging from 700-800hp, have had 0 reliability issues even pushing exhaust back pressure well beyond what is normal, seeing as high as 1.5:1 ratios. 

DESIGN

The cartridge is a single sleeve system that contains a set of German made precision ceramic ball bearings on either end, whereas the traditional bearing system contained a set of journal bearings and a thrust bearing. The ball bearing design allows for a longer life under extreme conditions compared to its journal bearing counterpart. 

TURBO RESPONSE 

When driving with the cartridge ball bearing turbocharger you will find an exceptionally crisp and strong throttle response. We are seeing 15% faster spool up than traditional journal bearings across the board on the three available sizes we offer. This also helps with lowering EGTs and intake temps. 

REDUCED OIL FLOW

The ball bearing design reduces the required amount of oil to provide adequate lubrication. On most ball bearing turbochargers an oil restrictor must be run in the oil line/turbo oil inlet. We have machined the center cartridge in a way that there is no need for a restrictor. This allows for the turbo to have optimum lubrication volume at all times, no more, no less. There is no need for the customer to figure out the restrictor size. This lower oil volume reduces the chance for seal leakage. Also, the ball bearing is more tolerant of marginal lube conditions and diminishes the possibility of turbocharger failure on engine shut down.

IMPROVED SHAFT DYNAMICS AND DURABILITY

The ball bearing cartridge gives better damping and control over shaft motion, allowing enhanced reliability in everyday and extreme conditions. In addition, the opposed angular contact bearing cartridge eliminates the need for the thrust bearing, commonly a weak link in the turbo bearing system. With high boost pressure and exhaust back pressure common with diesels this can help significantly on high performance applications that are running the S300 frame turbo at its limit.

DEVELOPMENT

Most ball bearing cartridges are plagued with the inability to be serviced when they fail and are not rebuildable. We have developed our bearing package with this in mind. The serviceable aspect costs more to execute because the bearings are much more expensive than traditional mass produced turbos. The bearings are self contained and very large. Our German ball bearing design is equivalent to turbos much larger with a similar load capacity to turbos that can produce 1500hp. This adds longer life and strength to the turbo. The ball bearing design allows for a longer life under extreme conditions compared to its journal counterpart. 

CONCLUSION

After many months of testing under a multitude of driving conditions & situations we are proud to announce the addition of the SPE designed ball bearing turbochargers available in an s363, s366, & s370 designed specifically for the SPE Emperor Turbocharger System.

 Check out the kit here.- https://www.spediesel.com/products/spe-6-7l-emperor-turbo-system?_pos=1&_sid=507271dd0&_ss=r