2004.5-2007 Dodge 5.9L Cummins Compound Turbo Kits

Compound turbos on the 2004.5-2007 RAM 5.9L Cummins

From the factory, the 2004.5-2007 5.9L Cummins runs a single Holset HE351CW, fixed-geometry with an electronically controlled wastegate, and the ECM holds boost to about 30-31 psi. The stock turbine housing is the biggest restriction in the exhaust path. On a stock truck that's fine. Add fuel and the single stock turbo is where the heat backs up. There are two upgrade routes on this engine: a drop-in single turbo, or a compound (twin) kit for higher power. This page is the second route.

Why compounds: the heat problem

The 2004.5-up engine has a 1,500 F EGT limit. With the stock turbo and added fuel, EGT runs past it, especially towing or at altitude, and running hot over time damages valve seats. A stock-turbo truck may or may not stay safe with 60-70 extra horsepower, depending on load, altitude and ambient temperature. Compounds are what let a fueled truck tow with EGT kept under roughly 1,100-1,300 F. One owner who wrote up his compound setup kept EGT at or under 1,100 F towing at altitude.

Compound kit vs. drop-in turbo

A drop-in replaces the stock turbo with an upgraded single that lowers EGT and supports Stage 1-2 injectors. A compound kit is for power beyond that. If your goal is towing with a moderately fueled truck, start by comparing drop-in turbos. If you've gone past that level, a compound kit is the next step. Either way, pair the turbo work with intercooler and boot upgrades and a pyrometer, because you can't manage EGT you can't see. And if the stock turbo is simply worn on a stock truck, a new stock replacement is the direct fix.

What we carry

This collection holds the ATS Diesel Performance Aurora Compound Turbo System, listed for 1994-2007 Cummins trucks. Install parts like oil lines, drain tubes, gaskets, V-band clamps and turbo blankets are in the turbo accessories collection. To compare turbos across platforms, browse all turbos.

Fitment notes

The ATS compound kit is listed across 1994-2007 Cummins, so confirm the listing covers your exact year and engine before you order. Turbo hardware on the 5.9L is year-split: 2003-2004 trucks used the HY35W, 2004.5-2007 trucks the HE351CW, with different housings and actuators. A 2007.5 truck with the 6.7L uses a different turbo, manifold and control system, so identify any 2007 by its engine. If you're adding power, use parts that are legal where you drive and check the product page for a CARB EO number covering your model year. Verify by VIN when in doubt.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need compounds to tow with a fueled 5.9L?

It depends on how much fuel. An upgraded drop-in lowers EGT and supports Stage 1-2 injectors. Beyond that, compounds are what let a fueled truck tow with EGT under roughly 1,100-1,300 F instead of pushing past the 1,500 F limit.

Will a compound kit fix low boost on my stock truck?

No. Low boost, high EGT and a hiss under load can come from leaking boots or intercooler tanks, which mimic a bad turbo. Check for leaks first. If the HE351CW itself is worn, a stock-replacement turbo is the direct fix.

What gauge should I run with compounds?

A pyrometer. Any turbo change on this engine should come with intercooler and boot upgrades and a pyrometer, so you can watch EGT against the 1,500 F limit while towing.

Is the stock turbo really that restrictive?

Yes. The stock turbine housing has been the biggest restriction in the Cummins exhaust path since 1994. On an early-2004 High Output truck with the older HY35W, a turbo swap took dyno numbers from 280 to 306 hp, mostly from moving to a larger wastegated turbine housing.

Not sure what fits? Call the shop at the number in the header, or use the fitment checker on any product page. We install everything we sell.