Duramax Turbo Flutter: Understanding the Cause and Solution

For many truck owners, a fluttering noise from the turbocharger can be unsettling and even concerning. However, in some cases, this noise is not a sign of a serious issue but rather a characteristic of certain engine configurations. In this article, we'll explore what causes duramax turbo flutter and how to address it.

For older variable vane turbocharged engines, electronic controls are available to convert the turbo into an exhaust brake, similar to newer vehicles. The mechanical butterfly valves provide excellent retarding performance, making them a great fit for pre-variable vane turbocharged trucks or those who have swapped out their turbos for a performance upgrade and still want exhaust brake functionality.

At BD Diesel, we've been designing and manufacturing exhaust brakes for over 30 years, with many options available to choose from. Our OEM-quality replacement parts, performance upgrades for the fuel system, turbocharger, transmission, and suspension are all designed to provide optimal performance and reliability.

However, some owners of 6.0L Duramax-powered trucks may experience a fluttering noise when driving at constant speeds or decelerating. This issue has been addressed by dealerships in the past, but it's essential to understand that it's not always a sign of a malfunction.

In some cases, the fluttering noise can be attributed to the mechanical butterfly valves' natural behavior. When accelerating under load and decelerating, these valves may create a slight fluttering noise due to their design. This is especially true for engines with higher power outputs or those that have undergone performance upgrades.

In late 2007, Dodge introduced significant changes to its Ram pickup line, including an engine upgrade to the 6.7L Cummins and a new generation transmission, the 68RFE. Since then, BD Diesel has expanded its product range to cater to both gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles from Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM.

As a leading manufacturer of aftermarket and replacement products for Cummins-powered vehicles, BD Diesel offers a vast network of dealers, distributors, and installers across North America to ensure quick access to the parts you need. With one of the largest assortments available, we have the right part for your Cummins engine, whether you're seeking maintenance solutions or performance upgrades.

In conclusion, duramax turbo flutter is not always a cause for concern but rather an inherent characteristic of certain engine configurations. By understanding the root cause and addressing any potential issues through proper maintenance and upgrade options, truck owners can enjoy optimal performance and reliability from their engines.

Duramax turbo flutter