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Can a Wastegate Be Too Big? (Explained)

Updated: Feb 1

✔ This article has been fact checked.


The purpose of a wastegate is to control the boost pressure in the engine, which helps to prevent the turbo from overspeeding and potentially damaging the engine.


Yes, a wastegate can be too big. If the wastegate is too large, it may not be able to fully open and close as needed to regulate the boost pressure in the engine. This can result in boost pressure that is too low, which can lead to poor performance.


The size of the wastegate is important as it determines how much exhaust gas can flow through the turbine, and how much boost pressure the engine can generate.


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an external wastegate exhaust setup

How Can a Wastegate Be Too Big?

A wastegate is a valve that regulates the boost pressure in the engine by controlling the amount of exhaust gas that bypasses the turbocharger. If the wastegate is too big, it may not be able to fully open and close to regulate the boost pressure, leading to poor performance.


If the wastegate is too small, it may not be able to fully open, leading to high boost pressure and potential engine damage. Choosing the right size wastegate is crucial to ensure proper engine performance and protection.


How Big Should the Wastegate Be?