I was just thinking, why is it that you always hear about turbocharged diesel engines, but not supercharged diesel engines? Is there something in a diesel that makes the use of a supercharger less desirable? Also, in these older diesels, is there any way to detune the motor once a turbo has been added, for fuel mileage purposes? Just giving things some thought, wanting to get a little more out of my hard earned cash. Thanks guys.
Scott

 

the 2 stroke detroit diesel was supercharged

 

All two stroke diesels are supercharged; Some have a turbocharger in addition to the supercharger. The only reason I can think of that superchargers aren't used on four stroke diesels is that a positive displacement supercharger would build boost at low rpms, and since diesels don't use throttle plates, that might create a problem. Whereas with a turbo, off boost, the engine acts like it is normally aspirated. The turbo is likely more efficient as well. The two stroke must have a supercharger to get enough air into the cylinder since there is not a full downward stroke of the piston to suck air into the cylinder. I could be way off base here, and if so, someone please correct what I've said.

 

The main reason is it takes horsepower to run the supercharger but the turbo is almost power requirement free.

Superchargers also require a drive belt and mounting location where space is already tight.

 

I am familiar with the workings of the 2 stroke diesels, sounds like you are correct there. Anyone have anymore information on whether or not you can de-tune international/ford diesels(6.9L) after you've added a turbo kit to gain fuel mileage? With soaring fuel prices I am heavily considering a turbo on the old diesel and selling the gasser I drive daily now. The reason I ask about the supercharger is that I have an old centrifugal blower off of an EFI Chev 350.
Scottie