Re: Voodoo Mechanics .

Earl-
Turbocharging an diesel engine can be more complicated that running the manifolds through the turbo. To get the most out of the turbo you need to change the camshaft to allow the intake valves to open before the exhaust valves close. In my experience this is for as much as 145 degrees of crankshaft movement (4 stroke). This allows the turbo to "scavenge" the cylinders, or completly clean the cylinders out and provide a cleaner charge of air for the next cycle. This allows the engine to better burn it's fuel and/or more fuel. This major difference is still in the top end of the engine rpm range, but with out the new cam the turbo cannot completly clean the cylinder out at any time. The one drawback to this that I have seen is Turbolag. This occures when the engine speed is increased quickly (two or more notches at a time). The engine will speed up faster than the turbo. This results in more than usual smoke when the engine speed is increased. But when the turbo catches up there will be H___ to pay. This is not the case with EMD engines, because they are two strokes. The turbo speed is accelerated with gearing to match the engine on acceleration. The turbo is free to spin faster, but will never spin slower than necessary.
In this particular case I think the traction motor/electrical issues need to be addressed before seriously investing time/money in engine "upgrades".
Food for thought
Ryan