I am looking for suggestions for a friend who is going to transplant a 1990 cummins into his 1955 chev one ton which is mounted on a 1978 chev one ton chassis. He is replacing the 454 he has in it with the cummins. Other than the pump modificatons can a later turbo engine from a 1994 be of any value over the 90 turbo? We realize that installing an intercooler may be necessary and will probably do that if we can find the room/placement for it. Would appreciate any ideas/suggestions or links to other members similar projects. Did a lot of searching but couldn't find much about using later turbo on the first gen engines.
Thanks, Leon

 

Yes you can use later turbos on first gens. 2nd gen turbos are bolt on, 3rd gen need some piping modifications.

 

Thanks Biltit, What is the benefit of just putting on the 94 turbo? do you need to add the intercooler? thanks, Leon

 

'94 turbo should be a WH1C, which will have a bigger compressor wheel with MWE slot and a wastegated exhaust housing. The benefits would be quicker spooling and better airflow on the cold side. It's a better turbo.

You don't necessarily need the intercooler, but it will lower EGTs. If you're going to do it, you might as well do it right (if you can find the room/make it work, that is).