Answering the practical buyer: for 3.5L V6 engines, a turbo kit can restore or boost performance on Ford EcoBoost models like Explorer, Flex, Taurus, Lincoln MKS/MKT, and Ford F-150. The top picks below are best for enthusiasts seeking improved throttle response, more horsepower, or a direct replacement without extensive custom fabrication. The list targets practical buyers such as daily drivers seeking performance gains, weekend tinkerers, and those upgrading worn turbo components.
Summary of selected products:
| Product | Brand | Best For | Why Chosen |
|---|---|---|---|
| Right Side Turbo Turbocharger Kit with Wastegate Actuator | Fexhull | Ford Explorer / Taurus (3.5L EcoBoost) owners needing a right-side replacement | Direct fit for specific 3.5L EcoBoost applications with wastegate actuator. |
| DOLKSN 2Pcs Left & Right Turbocharger Kit | DOLKSN | Owners replacing both sides on EcoBoost 3.5L vehicles | Includes left and right turbochargers with wastegate actuators and gaskets. |
| A-Premium Complete Turbo Turbocharger Kit | A-Premium | Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost owners | Left and right sides included; designed for direct replacement. |
| T76 Turbo Turbocharger Universal | YOMALL | Custom/kit builders with 3.5L+ engines seeking high-HP potential | High horsepower range (600-1000HP), universal fit for above-3.5L engines. |
| NEW GT1549SL Left & Right Turbo Turbocharger Set | ProXlex | Explorer/Flex/Taurus/Lincoln 3.5L users needing a full set | Direct replacement left and right with multiple reference numbers for compatibility. |
Right Side Turbo Turbocharger Kit With Wastegate Actuator
Best for: Ford Explorer, Police Interceptor Sedan/Utility, Flex, Taurus, Lincoln MKS/MKT with 3.5L EcoBoost engines needing a right-side turbo replacement. This kit includes a wastegate actuator and gasket, and is positioned as a direct fit for listed vehicle lines. Caution: Verify your vehicle’s part numbers (OE 2511513, 790318-0008, AA5E-6K682-BF variants) before purchase to avoid mismatches. Bounded by noted compatibility, it supports stable performance through a robust alloy turbocharger construction.
DOLKSN 2Pcs Left & Right Turbocharger Kit
Best for: EcoBoost V6 3.5L models from 2010-2019 that require both left and right turbochargers with wastegate actuators. Includes gaskets and alloy components for enhanced durability. Caution: The extensive compatibility list includes multiple reference numbers; cross-check your exact model year and trim to ensure a perfect match, especially for Police Interceptor variants.
A-Premium Complete Turbo Turbocharger Kit
Best for: Ford F-150 2011-2012 3.5L EcoBoost owners seeking a complete left and right turbocharger kit for direct replacement. The kit lists multiple reference numbers to aid in precise matching. Caution: Confirm the part numbers (CL3Z-6K682-C, CL3Z-6K683-C, etc.) align with your build to ensure fitment and function.
T76 Turbo Turbocharger Universal
Best for: Builders and performance enthusiasts with above-3.5L engines seeking a high-HP upgrade. The unit supports 600-1000HP with a T4 turbine flange and a robust nickel-based alloy, offering strong engine response. Caution: Universal fit requires precise alignment and supplementary modifications for optimal results; verify part-number compatibility before purchasing to avoid incorrect orders.
NEW GT1549SL Left & Right Turbocharger Set
Best for: Ford Explorer, Flex, Taurus, Lincoln MKS/MKT from 2010-2019 requiring both left and right turbo assemblies with multiple compatible reference numbers. The kit emphasizes direct replacement and includes several part-number crosswalks to aid proper matching. Caution: Ensure the exact model year and engine spec align with the listed compatibility to avoid non-fit issues.
GDUKOP AA5Z6K682CA Left & Right Turbocharger Assembly
Best for: Ford Explorer, Flex, Taurus, Police Interceptor and Lincoln models with 3.5L EcoBoost V6 seeking a paired left-right replacement. Caution: Always verify exact fitment against the provided model years and engine codes, as multiple replacement numbers exist for this family of turbos.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For 3.5L V6 Turbo Kits
What engine and model years are compatible?
Most 3.5L EcoBoost kits target Ford Explorer, Flex, Taurus, Police Interceptor variants, and Lincoln MKS/MKT with years ranging around 2010-2019. Confirm your exact engine code (EcoBoost V6) and the model year to ensure the kit references align with your vehicle’s OEM part numbers.
Left vs. right side configuration
Some kits are single-side replacements (usually right side), while others include left and right turbos. If your vehicle has worn turbos on both banks, choose a dual-turbo kit to restore balanced performance and throttle response. Consider whether your installation requires wastegate actuators and gaskets included in the kit.
Gaskets, actuators, and installation hardware
Prefer kits that include wastegate actuators and gaskets to avoid hunting for compatibility parts. A few listings note multiple replacement numbers; use these as cross-reference guides to confirm fitment and avoid missing components during install.
Power goals and reliability
Universal or high-HP kits (like T76) target enthusiasts seeking big gains, but may require additional fuel and exhaust system tuning. For daily driving or moderate performance gains, choose manufacturer-listed direct-replacement kits designed for 3.5L EcoBoost engines to ensure reliability and maintainability.
Quality of components
Look for kits described as built from alloy or high-strength materials to help withstand turbo pressures. Evaluating whether the kit uses proven compressor/turbine configurations can inform durability and engine response over time.
Fitment notes and verification steps
Always verify final compatibility by cross-referencing OEM part numbers and your vehicle’s VIN with the product listing. If in doubt, contact the seller for confirmation before purchase to prevent incorrect fitment.
FAQ
- Are these turbo kits a direct replacement? Often yes, for specific 3.5L EcoBoost models; however, verify exact part numbers and vehicle compatibility before purchasing.
- Should I replace both turbos at once? If both banks show wear or performance loss, a dual-turbo kit can restore balanced power and response; otherwise, a single-side kit may suffice.
- Do these kits include gaskets and actuators? Many do, but always confirm included components in the product description to ensure you have all required parts for installation.
- Will a high-HP universal turbo fit my vehicle? Universal options offer higher power potential but require careful integration, tuning, and compatibility checks with your engine bay and supporting systems.
- What should I check before ordering? Confirm engine type, model year, VIN, and OEM part numbers, and compare them to the listing’s ref numbers to avoid mismatches.
- Can I install a turbo kit myself? A mechanically skilled DIYer with experience in exhaust, intercooler piping, and ECU tuning can attempt installation; otherwise, professional installation is advised due to safety and performance concerns.