Turbochargers are designed to push the limits of performance, but they also generate extreme heat. To keep them running efficiently and reliably, they need proper cooling. There are two main types of turbo cooling systems: oil-only and oil & coolant-cooled setups. Understanding their differences is crucial when choosing the right turbo for your build.
HOW TURBOS ARE COOLED
All turbos rely on oil to lubricate the bearings and reduce friction. However, heat management is another challenge, especially when the turbo is running hard and then shut off quickly. This is where the difference between oil-only and oil & coolant-cooled turbos comes into play.
OIL-ONLY TURBOS
Oil-only turbos rely solely on engine oil for both lubrication and cooling. The oil flows through the turbo’s center housing, absorbing heat from the bearings and shaft before returning to the engine’s oiling system.
✔ Pros:
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Simpler design with fewer components.
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Easier to install, making them ideal for older engines or simpler turbo conversions.
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No risk of coolant leaks or additional plumbing issues.
❌ Cons:
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Higher oil temperatures due to lack of additional cooling support.
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More stress on engine oil, requiring high-quality oil and frequent changes.
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Increased risk of oil coking (burnt oil deposits) if the turbo is not properly cooled down after hard driving.
OIL & COOLANT-COOLED TURBOS
Modern turbochargers often incorporate a cooling system that uses both oil and engine coolant. The coolant circulates around the turbo’s center housing, helping to draw heat away and prevent excessive oil temperatures.
✔ Pros:
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Better heat dissipation, reducing overall turbo temperatures.
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Less stress on engine oil, prolonging oil life.
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Helps prevent oil coking, increasing turbo longevity.
❌ Cons:
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More complex installation due to additional coolant lines.
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Potential for coolant leaks if not properly maintained.
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Requires a properly functioning cooling system for optimal performance.
WHEN CAN YOU RUN AN OIL-ONLY TURBO SETUP?
While oil-only turbos are often seen in older or simpler turbo setups, they can still be a viable option in specific cases:
Older engines designed for oil-only turbos – Many classic turbocharged engines were built with oil-only setups and work well with proper maintenance.
Race applications with proper turbo cooling strategies – Dedicated race cars with controlled cooldown procedures can effectively run oil-only turbos.
Low-boost, street-driven setups – If you’re running a mild turbo setup with minimal stress, an oil-only turbo can still provide reliable performance.
However, if you're running high boost, frequent hard driving, or tuning for longevity, a coolant-cooled turbo is generally the better choice.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT TURBO FOR YOUR BUILD
At Demon Pro Parts, we offer both oil-only and oil & coolant-cooled turbos to fit your specific needs. Whether you're building a high-performance track car or a reliable daily driver, choosing the right cooling setup is essential for maximising performance and reliability.
Need help selecting the perfect turbo? Reach out to our team, and we’ll get you set up with the best option for your build!
