I would like to introduce you to the GT45 Y2004K turbocharger.  This not to be confused with a Turbonetics Y2K turbocharger and no this is not a new Turbonetics offering.  It is however 1002 times the Y2K (2000×1002=2,004,000)! I bring it up because this turbocharger is frequently found for sale on a popular internet auction site.  It typically lists with a price tag somewhere between $150 and $250 with $50 for shipping.  Now you might be saying to yourself, “Thanks for pointing that out to me!  What am I doing looking at Turbonetics Turbochargers when I can get me one of those for $300?!”  I am going to tell you why you get what you pay for.

Aside from the normal costs of raw materials, manufacturing and production turbochargers require research, development and quality control.  Engineers spend hours designing and drawing each turbocharger component.  Every dimension is given its tolerance limits to ensure consistent manufacturing and prevent component interference.  During development multiple test units are sent out for abuse at racetracks, tractor pulls, dyno pulls, etc.  After abuse the units are returned, torn down, and inspected.  Then the unit moves into production.  Before assembly every production turbocharger component is checked by quality control against the engineering drawings.  Those parts that pass quality inspection are assembled by technicians following precise procedures.  Finally each unit is balanced by carefully calibrated machines.

 Every step of the process adds to the cost of a product.  Development expenses allow for the best performing design.  Manufacturing expenses allow for tight tolerances and more costly metal allows.  Quality control expenses ensure that parts fit together and perform correctly.  Other expenses allow for the hiring of educated sales and technical service staff.  It is easy to lower expenses when steps like development and quality control are left out.  It is one thing to be competitive in the market, that entails finding the perfect balance of expenses in each area.  However the GT45 Y2004K is offered at a price that significantly undercuts all of its competitors.  That just spells trouble.  Continued consumer support for undercut products drives the quality manufacturers away from the business.

When purchasing a new turbocharger please educate yourself about the procedures of the manufacturing company.  If you call our sales and technical service department at Turbonetics Inc. they can tell you what it takes to get our turbochargers from concept to reality.  They can assist in determining the best unit for your application to ensure efficient operation. They can also tell you about our warranty plan and quality control system.  A turbocharger is a significant investment for performance gain.  Take the time to research your investment and make the best decision.