Vasilis

Hey all,

I currently own a 1.8L NA8C that came with a refreshed engine, running 10:1 pistons but no VVT.

I am ordering a turbo kit for it but I can't decide between the GBC series (20-300 or 22-350) vs the Pulsar 2860 Gen 2 GTX clone.

All my research shows that a GBC is much better value for money (roughly 1/3 of the price) compared to the GTX2860 GEN 2 *but* this assumes both are original Garrett.

The Pulsar 2860 GTX Gen2 clone is the same price as a GBC20-300 however which really throws a wrench into the gears of the decision process.

Power goals would be approx 280whp peak with safe torque but a built motor can be part of the car's future since the budget allows it if needed.

The GBC series can do up to 300hp or 350hp depending on variant at the flywheel and the 2860 can do ~475hp, so a lot more room for any future idea.

Personally, even without experiencing it, I doubt I'd ever go over 350 at the wheels.

I saw some comparisons of other journal bearing vs ball bearing but I am not sure they apply to these models since the GBC seems to be using GTX parts that provide better spool.
I also saw people mentioning that journal bearing are easier to service/rebuild for the DIY enthusiast..

Thoughts?

sixshooter

iTrader: (12)

Might be difficult to get 280whp from a 10 to 1 engine on pump gas without a somewhat compromised spark map. Be sure to use det cans when tuning spark and always leave yourself some cushion.

A retarded map will increase EGTs, which is tough on turbos.

Vasilis

Well 280whp isn't set in stone, I could settle with 10-15 less for now I suppose. I was also planning to add water injection

SimBa

I'm interested to see what people say as well, because these are the exact options I'm considering for the future as well. I'm also looking at the ~350 WHP range.

I'm not sure how much it matters, but the GBC line is only oil cooled, where the GTX is water cooled. Unfortunately there are only a few threads I've found on the GBC line.
Pulsar does have a GBC20-300 clone, which is the PSR 3942G, although it's only ~$200 cheaper ($750 vs $950) than the actual Garrett unit. I haven't found a GBC22-350 clone from them yet.

Vasilis

I am in Europe so the difference between a GBC20-300 and a Pulsar 2860 Gen 2 is ~100$ so .. practically same price

SimBa

I was comparing the Garrett vs Pulsar versions of the GBC 20-300. Personally I'd shell out the $200 to get a genuine Garrett over the clone.
I noticed you didn't mention the Pulsar 3942 so I figured I'd put it in the mix, although it doesn't seem that attractive unless you're on a really strict budget.

Jables

I can tell you the GBC line is very efficient and will boost creep with a full 3" exhaust. My power goals were based on a stock bottom end, and I'm currently struggling to keep the GBC22-350 under control! I have a cat-less exhaust, so if you're running a cat you should be able to keep the spool in check a little easier. My plan is to add a cat, #1 so it doesn't smell like a boat, #2 so I can keep this thing at or under 10PSI at redline.

SimBa

Tangential to the main thread, but I'm thinking about adding a cat to my exhaust as well so it doesn't stink so much. I guess that's how you learn though. It's not horrible, but I definitely get whiffs when I roll up to stop signs.

Vasilis

Well I didn't mention it because wherever I found it for sale it's the same price or even sometimes a bit more with tax than the original GBC /shrug

Vasilis

I am going for the 3" full Kraken exhaust that includes a 200cel cat