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In the world of trucks, there are many different sayings that drivers, mechanics, and manufacturers alike are bound to. Among all the different sayings and unbroken truths that continue to be applied, there’s one that you should know about: A turbocharged engine is only as good as the intercooler that’s paired with it.

An introduction to the supporting part

Best regarded as one of the integral components to any diesel engine, the intercooler is responsible for ensuring that everything else in the assembly runs as smoothly as possible.

Commonly mounted behind the grille and positioned between the engine and turbochargers, this vital component acts as an air-to-heat exchanger that seeks to lower the overall temperature of the compressed intake air. Beyond temperature regulation, this part—which is also known as a charge air cooler—also helps compress the oxygen taken in by the turbocharger into a more consumable form for the engine to ingest for better spooling.

Various forms worth taking note of

Generally, intercoolers come in different iterations that each come with their own set of advantages, disadvantages, and appropriate applications. Let’s go over each of them in further detail:

Standard intercoolers

For any truck that comes with a stock diesel turbo engine, it’s safe to assume that it also includes a stock intercooler that’s built to support baseline numbers and ensure smooth performance with a standard turbo.

In the case of most trucks, these air-to-air models follow a plate-style core design and three-inch-thick bar. Most truck owners end up keeping their standard intercoolers even if they have a few additional mods because they’re durable, simple to work with, and effective, all while saving a fortune.

Aftermarket intercoolers

As the desire to make more out of a diesel engine begins to settle in, turbo diesel truck owners typically pay attention to the system they use to keep everything under control as the mods pile up. This is where an aftermarket intercooler comes in.

Often seen as a non-negotiable for high-performance builds, aftermarket intercoolers are essentially standard options with greater capacities and capabilities to perform under pressure. What makes aftermarket intercoolers is that they feature larger cores, higher boost ratings, and upgraded construction to handle double, triple, or quadruple of a truck’s stock horsepower output.

Such components are especially important to include in any performance build because they provide enhanced cooling performance that helps prevent various problems, such as damaged valves, melted pistons, and wiped-out turbos!

Water-to-air intercoolers

In recent years, manufacturers have pulled out all the stops to provide consumers with more effective cooling systems that complement the higher power output brought about by performance parts. This is why parts like the water-to-air intercooler were produced.

High-performance builds, in particular, are set to benefit the most from this special intercooler as it works better with greater amounts of fuel and boosts that are both on top as such configurations merit excessive amounts of heat. With the help of an efficient water circulation system, however, rising temperatures can be mitigated without suffering much boost drop or warp.

Conclusion

Without an adequate intercooler installed, your turbo diesel engine may not be able to perform or last as long as it should. This is why it is important to know exactly which option should be in your engine bay. By taking this guide into consideration, you’ll be able to avoid any underlying problems and make sure that you’re getting your money’s worth during the build process!

When it comes to parts like Cummins 24v fuel injectors, aftermarket intercoolers, and more, we’ve got you covered. Contact us at US Diesel Parts now!