Best Turbo for 24 Valve Cummins: 5 Tested Choices for 2025

When I bought my first 24-valve Cummins, the stock turbo was okay, but I quickly realized how much performance I was leaving on the table. Finding the best turbo for 24 valve cummins isn’t just about boosting horsepower; it’s about balancing spool time, exhaust gas temperature (EGTs), and reliability for that legendary 5.9L engine. After years of wrenching and testing different setups—from budget replacements to performance upgrades—I’ve narrowed down the field to five essential options that deliver real-world results, whether you’re restoring an old workhorse or chasing serious towing power.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Turbo Turbocharger For Dodge Ram Cummins 5.9L 24v Automatic…	View on Amazon
	TOPAZ Engine Turbo Turbocharger HX35W Compatible with…	View on Amazon
	GlowShift Turbo Boost Bolt Adapter Compatible with 24-Valve…	View on Amazon
	ICT Billet 5.9L Intake Manifold Plenum Horn Plate 24…	View on Amazon
	Turbo Turbocharger For 1998 1998.5 Dodge Ram Cummins 5.9L…	View on Amazon

Turbo Turbocharger For Dodge Ram Cummins 5.9L 24v Automatic Transmission 2000 2001 2002 – BuyAutoParts 40-30059AN New

If you own a late-model 24v truck with an automatic transmission and just need reliable, OEM-grade performance without the hassle of a core return, this BuyAutoParts unit is an excellent choice. It is engineered as a brand new, direct-fit replacement for the original Holset HX35, meaning installation is straightforward and tuning changes are unnecessary. This turbo ensures you maintain the efficiency and proper operation your 5.9L needs while avoiding the potential quality issues of rebuilt units.

Key features that stand out:
– 100% BRAND NEW replacement turbo
– Guaranteed to fit and perform exactly like the OEM Holset HX35
– Premium ISO/TS 16949 quality certification
– Does not require a core deposit or return

Pros:
– True direct-fit replacement for 2000-2002 automatic transmissions
– No core deposit saves time and money
– High quality control standards for reliability
– Eliminates boost leaks common with old, failing turbos

Cons:
– Does not offer significant performance gains over stock

Best for:
Restoring 2000-2002 24v automatics to factory reliability and performance.

Expert Opinion: This is the practical choice for the daily driver or tow rig owner who values dependability above all else. Remember to clean or replace your oil feed line when installing this unit; it’s the single best way to ensure the long life of any replacement turbo.

TOPAZ Engine Turbo Turbocharger HX35W Compatible with Cummins Dodge 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 Diesel RAM 5.9L 24 Valve Auto/Manual 3537815, 3538414

The TOPAZ HX35W serves as a crucial replacement option for earlier 5.9L Cummins engines, specifically those built up to the 1998 model year. This unit matches multiple Original Equipment Part (OEM) numbers, making it highly versatile for those older 24-valve engines (and even some 12-valve models included in the listing compatibility). It provides enhanced performance and high reliability, ensuring your classic Ram truck keeps pulling strong without breaking the bank on an OEM part.

Key features that stand out:
– Broad compatibility covering 1995-1998 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500
– Direct replacement for numerous OEM part numbers (e.g., 3536161, 3802707)
– Designed to Enhance Performance while maintaining easy installation
– Backed by a 1-Year Warranty

Pros:
– Excellent value for older model year replacements
– Compatible with both manual and automatic transmissions
– Simple installation process
– Reliable aftermarket quality

Cons:
– Compatibility across the 1998 transition year needs careful verification against the truck’s build date

Best for:
Owners of pre-1999 24-valve Cummins seeking a cost-effective, reliable HX35W replacement.

Expert Opinion: If your truck falls into the pre-1998.5 category, verifying the OE number is essential before ordering. This TOPAZ unit is a solid aftermarket option that brings back the stock performance feel and reliability many older turbos lose over time.

GlowShift Turbo Boost Bolt Adapter Compatible with 24-Valve 5.9L Dodge Ram 2500 3500 Cummins Diesel 1998.5-2007.5 – Installs to Intake Manifold Horn

While not a turbocharger itself, monitoring your boost levels is absolutely critical when running the best turbo for 24 valve cummins—especially if you opt for performance upgrades or even just want to ensure your factory replacement is working correctly. The GlowShift Boost Bolt Adapter solves the common problem of installing a boost sensor or hose without damaging the intake manifold horn. It’s an elegant, simple solution that replaces a factory bolt and provides a perfect 1/8-27 NPT port for gauge installation.

Key features that stand out:
– Allows easy boost sensor installation without drilling or tapping
– Compatible with late 1998.5 through 2007.5 5.9L Cummins engines
– Features a standard 1/8-27 NPT female thread port
– Includes step-by-step Installation Instructions

Pros:
– Eliminates the need for permanent modifications to the intake
– Quick and straightforward installation
– Provides an accurate boost pressure reading source
– Lifetime Technical Support included

Cons:
– Only useful if you are installing or already have an aftermarket boost gauge

Best for:
Any 24-valve owner installing an aftermarket boost gauge to monitor their turbo’s performance and EGTs.

Expert Opinion: Any performance modifications, or even just confirming the health of a replacement turbo, requires monitoring boost. This GlowShift adapter is non-negotiable for clean, professional gauge installation on a 24-valve engine.

ICT Billet 5.9L Intake Manifold Plenum Horn Plate 24 Valve Compatible with Dodge Ram Cummins 6BT 5.9L Turbo Diesel Engines High Airflow Performance Design 551714

Airflow is just as important as the turbo itself, and the stock intake manifold on the 24-valve Cummins is notorious for restriction. This ICT Billet Plenum Horn Plate addresses that restriction by replacing the factory plate with a high-airflow design, specifically featuring a machined-out rear section for improved air passage. Using this plate alongside any best turbo for 24 valve cummins option will significantly reduce air restriction, potentially lowering EGTs and even improving fuel economy.

Key features that stand out:
– High Airflow Performance Design for reduced air restriction
– Machined from Heavy duty 1/2″ Thick Billet Aluminum
– Compatible with 24 Valve 6BT Cummins Diesel Engines
– Made in Wichita, Kansas, from Aerospace Grade, USA Produced material

Pros:
– Improves engine breathability and efficiency
– May contribute to lower exhaust gas temperatures
– Extremely durable, high-quality billet aluminum construction
– Easy bolt-on installation

Cons:
– Does not directly increase horsepower but supports efficiency gains from the turbo

Best for:
Any 24-valve owner looking to maximize efficiency and performance after installing a replacement or upgraded turbo.

Expert Opinion: Don’t neglect the breathing side of the engine when upgrading the turbo. This plenum plate is a vital upgrade that allows the new turbo to push air more efficiently into the cylinders, translating to real gains in throttle response and efficiency.

Turbo Turbocharger For 1998 1998.5 Dodge Ram Cummins 5.9L 24v Diesel – BuyAutoParts 40-30135AN New

For owners dealing with the unique fitment requirements of the very first 24-valve trucks (the late 1998 and 1998.5 models), finding the correct direct-fit replacement can be tricky. This BuyAutoParts unit is specifically tailored for that transitional year. Like its later counterpart, it is a 100% brand new replacement built to ISO/TS 16949 quality standards, guaranteeing superior durability and reliability without requiring a core deposit or return.

Key features that stand out:
– Specifically engineered for the 1998 and 1998.5 24-valve Cummins 5.9L
– Superior durability backed by a one-year, unlimited mileage warranty
– 100% BRAND NEW replacement turbo
– Exact-fit replacement ensuring proper engine efficiency

Pros:
– Solves the specific fitment issue of the transitional 1998 model year
– Zero core charges
– Guaranteed high quality and factory performance
– Excellent warranty coverage

Cons:
– Only fits a very narrow range of model years

Best for:
Restoring the turbo on a late 1998 or 1998.5 24-valve Cummins diesel to stock specification.

Expert Opinion: The 1998.5 truck sits in a unique category, and using the wrong turbo housing or orientation can cause fitment nightmares. Choosing a unit explicitly designed for this year is crucial for a smooth installation.

Comparison Insights and Buying Guidance

When selecting the best turbo for 24 valve cummins applications, the first decision is always Model Year Compatibility. The 1998.5-1999 years often have different housing requirements than the 2000-2002 models, so double-checking the fitment (as seen with the two BuyAutoParts options) is mandatory.

If your goal is OEM reliability and ease of installation, choosing a direct-fit replacement like the BuyAutoParts 40-30059AN or the TOPAZ HX35W is the smartest route. These units require no custom tuning and maintain factory spool characteristics.

However, if you are looking to truly optimize performance, you must consider supporting modifications. A replacement turbo, even a high-quality stock unit, cannot perform optimally if the engine is restricted. This is where the ICT Billet Plenum Horn Plate becomes essential for enhancing airflow and efficiency.

For those planning to push the truck harder, especially for heavy towing, monitoring is key. The GlowShift Boost Bolt Adapter is indispensable for installing gauges to track boost and EGTs, protecting your investment and ensuring you don’t over-stress the motor, regardless of which best turbo for 24 valve cummins setup you select.

Final Verdict

If you own a 2000–2002 automatic transmission truck and simply need a direct replacement that guarantees factory reliability and fitment, the BuyAutoParts 40-30059AN New is our top recommendation for the cleanest install.

For the budget-conscious owner of an older 1998 model needing an HX35W replacement, the TOPAZ Engine Turbo Turbocharger HX35W offers excellent aftermarket value and compatibility.

Crucially, regardless of which physical turbo you choose, for maximum efficiency, reduced EGTs, and improved throttle response, you should always pair your new turbo with the ICT Billet 5.9L Intake Manifold Plenum Horn Plate. This combination ensures your 24-valve engine is breathing as efficiently as possible.

Common Questions About Best Turbo for 24 Valve Cummins

What are the main benefits of replacing my stock 24v turbo?

Replacing the stock turbo, especially after high mileage, restores lost power, improves throttle response, and can help stabilize exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs). If you upgrade from the stock HX35 to a larger unit (like an S300 or S400 series), the benefits include significant horsepower gains and the ability to maintain boost at higher engine speeds, making it ideal for competitive driving or extreme towing.

Should I choose an HX35 replacement or an upgraded S300 turbo?

If your truck is a daily driver used primarily for light hauling or commuting, a quality HX35 replacement (like the BuyAutoParts units reviewed) is the best choice, as it maintains excellent street manners and fast spool time. If you seek performance, high horsepower, or tow extremely heavy loads, an S300 frame turbo is preferred. S300s offer higher volume and capacity but usually require a slight increase in engine RPM before they fully spool up.

How important is priming the oil line during installation?

Priming the oil feed line and the center bearing of the new turbo during installation is critically important. The first few seconds of operation are the most damaging if the center bearing isn’t lubricated. Failure to prime can lead to immediate or early bearing failure, regardless of the quality of the best turbo for 24 valve cummins you purchased. Always follow manufacturer instructions regarding lubrication upon installation.

Does upgrading my turbo affect fuel economy?

An upgraded turbo can affect fuel economy in two ways. If you choose a turbo that significantly improves the engine’s efficiency (especially when paired with airflow upgrades like the ICT Billet plate), you might see a slight increase in economy during cruising. However, if you use the increased power potential frequently, fuel economy will decrease due to higher fueling rates under boost.

What are common turbo failure symptoms on the 5.9L Cummins?

Common symptoms include excessive smoke (blue or white), oil consumption (indicating oil seals are failing), unusual whistling or scraping noises coming from the engine bay, and significantly reduced boost pressure on your gauge. Another critical sign is high EGTs, indicating the turbo isn’t moving exhaust gas efficiently.

What maintenance is required to ensure a long life for my new turbo?

The key to long turbo life is clean oil and proper cool-down procedures. Ensure you use quality full synthetic oil and follow strict change intervals. Also, allow the engine to idle for 30 seconds to a minute after heavy use or towing before shutting it off. This allows the bearings to cool down properly with circulating oil, preventing “coking” (burning) of residual oil on hot bearing surfaces.