Compound Turbo 6.0L Powerstroke-Swapped R35 GT-R

Popular Posts Twin-Turbo 5.0L Coyote Engine Turbocharged 6.0L LS Engine Twin-Turbo LB7 Duramax Engine Mechanically Injected Triple-Turbo DX460 Engine Twin-Turbo 555 cid Big Block Chevy Engine Connect with us advertise with us

Mechanically Injected Triple-Turbo DX460 Engine

Twin-Turbo 555 cid Big Block Chevy Engine

Mechanically Injected Triple-Turbo DX460 Engine

Twin-Turbo 555 cid Big Block Chevy Engine

Add Your Listing Edit Your Listing By Category Engine Components A/N Fittings/AdaptorsAir Induction SystemsBatteriesBearings (camshaft)Bearings (engine sleeve type)Bearings (main rear main)Bearings (Rod)Belt Tensioner/IdlersBrass FittingsBushingsCam CapsCamshaft Belt DrivesCamshaft KitsCamshaft SealsCamshaft Thrust Plate and PartsCamshaftsCarburetorsChain KitsClampsComplete EnginesConnecting RodsConnecting Rods Nuts BoltsCrankshaft ConversionsCrankshaft KitsCrankshaft Oil SlingersCrankshaft Pulley SleevesCrankshaft Repair SleevesCrankshaft SealsCrankshaftsCylinder Head ComponentsCylinder Heads New: Aluminum BareCylinder Heads New: Aluminum CompleteCylinder Heads New: Cast Iron BareCylinder Heads New: Cast Iron CompleteCylinder Heads Reman: Aluminum BareCylinder Heads Reman: Aluminum CompleteCylinder Heads Reman: Cast Iron BareCylinder Heads Reman: Cast Iron CompleteCylinder Liners (sleeves)Diesel InjectorsDipstick Adapters (Chevy Ford)Dowel PinsEFI ComponentsEngine BlocksEngine Blocks - RemanufacturedEngine KitsEngine Management Systems/ECUsEngine MountsExhaust ComponentsExhaust Components: Complete SystemsExhaust Components: Custom ExhaustsExhaust Components: Leak DetectionExhaust Components: ManifoldsExhaust Components: Tube NotchingExhaust Components: Tube SwagingExhaust Components: Tube/Frame Bending MachinesFilters - AirFilters - FuelFilters - OilFlywheel (ring) GearsFlywheel AssembliesFuel Injection - ElectronicFuel Injection - MechanicalFuel PumpsFuel System ComponentsGasket CementGasketsGear DrivesGovernorsHarmonic Balancer Repair SleevesHarmonic Balancers/DampersHead Bolts/StudsHex ShaftsHydraulic Lash AdjustersIgnition ComponentsInjector TubesInjectors - DieselInjectors - Gasoline DirectInjectors - IndirectIntake ManifoldsIPR ValvesKeysLockwashersMain Caps (4-bolt)Manifold StudsNitrous Oxide Systems, ComponentsNitrous Valves and PlatesNuts and BoltsOil CoolersOil Filter AdaptersOil PansOil Pressure SpringsOil Pump KitsOil Pump ScreensOil Pump ShaftsOil Pump Timing CoversOil PumpsOiling Systems; Dry SumpOverhead Camshaft Repair SleevesPiston Pin BushingsPiston Pin Lock RingsPiston PinsPiston RingsPistonsPlugs - ExpansionPlugs - MagneticPlugs - Oil DrainPlugs - StandardPush RodsRadiator/Oil FansRering KitsRestoration Engine PartsRocker Arm Rebuilding ComponentsRocker Assemblies and KitsRocker Stud GirdlesSealsSerpentine BeltsShimsShort BlocksSpark PlugsSpringsSuperchargers, componentsSwitchesTappetsThread RepairThrust WashersTiming Belt/Chain TensionerTiming Belts/ChainsTiming Chains, Gears, SprocketsTiming ComponentsTiming CoversTransmission AdaptorsTurbochargers, componentsValve CoversValve Guide LinersValve GuidesValve KeysValve Lifter BallsValve LiftersValve Locks and SealsValve Seat InsertsValve Spring InsertsValve Spring RetainersValve SpringsValve Stem Oil SealsValve Train PartsValvesWater PumpsWater Tubes Engine Equipment & Preparation Adhesive DispensingAir Flow BenchesAir Handling SystemsBalance Shaft Elimination KitBalance Shaft Line Boring EquipmentBalancing AccessoriesBalancing EquipmentBelt SanderBench GrinderBlock Pressure Testing EquipmentBoring Bar InsertsBoring Bar Tool BitsBoring Machines/Connecting RodBoring Machines/CylinderBoring Machines/LineBoring Stand (For Portable Boring Machines)Brass FittingsBroachBushing Bearing & Seal Driver SetsCAD/CAM SoftwareCam Bearing Installation ToolCamshaft Degree Wheel (Digital)Camshaft GrindersCap & Rod GrinderCBN Inserts - NewCBN Inserts - ResurfacedCleaning Specialized EngineCNC Machining CentersCNC Retrofit KitsCompressed Air EquipmentConnecting Rod GaugesCoolant Filter MachinesCore Shift TesterCrack Repair EquipmentCranesCrankshaft Balance WeightsCrankshaft FurnaceCrankshaft GrindersCrankshaft Journal Weld KitsCrankshaft PolisherCrankshaft Polishing BeltsCrankshaft StraightenerCylinder Head Adapter PlatesCylinder Head Assembly/Disassembly Equip.Cylinder Head Chamfering ToolCylinder Head GaugeCylinder Head HoldersCylinder Head PolishingCylinder Head PortingCylinder Head Pressure TesterCylinder Head StraighteningCylinder Hone StopsCylinder Porting ToolsCylinder Sleeve PressDemagnetizersDiamond DressersDiesel Injector Hole Repair ToolsDiesel Injector Sleeve Installation ToolDowel PullersDye Penetrant InspectionDynamometersEngine Adaptor PlatesEngine Cycle AnalyzerExhaust Leak DetectionFeeler GaugesFlexible Honing Tools/Brush HonesFlywheel GrinderFuel Injection Cleaning ServicesGrinder Head StraighteningGrinding CoolantsGrinding WheelsHardness TestersHead/Block Crack Repair KitsHead/Block Resurfacing (Belt/Sanders)Head/Block Resurfacing (Milling)Heat Tabs Temperature SticksHolding FixturesHone Stop FixtureHoning JigsHoning Machines Wrist PinHoning Machines/CylinderHoning Machines/LineHoning Machines/RodHoning Machines/Valve GuideHoning PlatesHoning StonesIgnition System TestersIn-Process Gauges(Cam and Crank Grinders)Inspection GaugesLeak Down TesterLeveling DeviceMagnetic Particle Inspection Crack DetectionMicropolishing EquipmentOHC Line Boring ToolsOil Leak DetectionPCD Inserts - NewPin Fitting & Rod Reconditioning/TestingPin PressPin RemovalPiston KnurlerPiston Ring CompressorsPre-Cup Machining ToolsPush Rod Guide PlatesReplacement Chuck for Valve FacersRocker Arm GrinderRod AlignmentRod Bolt ProtectorsRod FurnaceRod VisesRun-In StandsStandsStud PullersTapsTest EquipmentThickness GaugeThread GaugesThread Repair & Replacement KitTorque PlatesUltrasonic Test EquipmentVacuum TesterValve Grinding BenchValve Guide & Seat Driver SetValve Guide & Seat MachineValve Guide Boring FixtureValve Guide HoneValve Guide KnurlingValve Guide PilotValve Guide ReamerValve Guide ToolValve Refacer (Cutter)Valve Refacer (Grinder)Valve Refacer WheelsValve Seat CuttersValve Seat InserterValve Seat PullersValve Seat ResurfacerValve Seat Runout GaugeValve Seat Tool GrinderValve Seat WheelsValve Spring CompressorValve Spring TestersValve Stem GrinderValve Stem Height MeasuringValve Stem PolisherWater Tube PullerWet Flow Bench Conversions Supplies & Service Chemicals & SolventsCore Cleaning & ProcessingCranes & HoistsHand ToolsLubricantsPressesServicesShippingStorage Racks & BenchesWelding

Whether you’re a professional engine builder, machinist or manufacturer, or an automotive enthusiast who likes engines, racing and fast vehicles, Engine Builder offers content aimed at you. Our print magazine offers in-depth tech features on everything you need to know about engine building and its different markets, while our newsletter options keep you up-to-date on the latest news and products, tech info and personalities in the industry. But, you only get all of that if you subscribe. Subscribe now to receive Engine Builder magazine in print and/or digital each month, and our Engine Builder newsletter, Engine of the Week newsletter or Diesel of the Week newsletter directly in your inbox each week. You’ll be covered in horsepower in no time!

Click here to view past issues.

Get the latest news, insights, and more delivered directly to you inbox.

Nissan’s R35 GT-R is one of the most popular cars out there, and for good reason. It’s been used for countless racing applications and tuning opportunities… but have you ever heard of a diesel-powered GT-R? We sure hadn’t until we stumbled across the team at Lyfe Motorsport and Riff Raff Diesel. Check out this insane 6.0L Powerstroke-powered GT-R!

Diesel of the Week is presented by

Well, we’ve officially seen it all in terms of engine swaps. On April 1 this year, we stumbled upon an Instagram post that detailed a “plan so outrageous, it had to be shared on April Fools’ day because no one would believe it.” That plan was to stuff a 6.0L Powerstroke under the hood of Nissan’s legendary GT-R and drive it in “The Race to the Clouds” – the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. That’s not all. The even loftier goal was to make the fastest diesel-powered run in Pikes Peak history.

Unfortunately, oil pressure issues led to the 2010 R35 GT-R ending the event earlier than desired. However, driver Cole Powelson did pilot the diesel Nissan through the first section in a time of 2:15.061, only around five seconds off the pace of the record set by Scott Birdsall and ninth fastest overall through the section in the Unlimited class.

We think that’s pretty impressive given the uniqueness and unusual pairing of the build, and the silver lining to the team’s setback is, Pikes Peak will always be there next year. In fact, the team is already planning out an attack.

The Powerstroke GT-R was a joint project between the likes of Lyfe Motorsport, which specializes in motorsports design, engineering, construction, operations, and professional racecar builds, and Riff Raff Diesel, a Powerstroke-focused manufacturing and retail business. The two came together when Lyfe Motorsport owner Cole Powelson had a unique idea for the race team’s pride and joy GT-R.

Lyfe originally purchased the car from Cobb Tuning who campaigned it as their time attack car in 2010. By 2013, Lyfe Motorsport became the first race team to win a North American endurance race in a non-factory-built GT-R. Then in 2015, the car would be retired for almost 6 years following a crash at Pikes Peak. In 2021, Powelson got the idea to restore the car to its former glory and call on Riff Raff Diesel for help with a powerplant.

“This is actually the second project we’ve done with them,” Powelson says. “We did a ‘55 Ford F-100 that we put the same 6.0L engine into. We finished that project and I drove it and I was like, ‘Damn, this thing actually boogies.’ It’s a pretty good engine. We joked about putting a 6.0L in a GT-R, and that joke just became more serious.”

How can a 2004 6.0L turbo diesel V8 compare to the VR38DETT that was originally under the hood? Surprisingly, the numbers aren’t so far off. The VR38DETT was bored out to 4.0L and force fed by twin Garrett GTX3076 turbos; on the dyno it made around 1,200 horsepower. Although the official numbers were never released, the Powerstroke made in the neighborhood of 850-950 horsepower and well over 1,000 ft.-lbs. of torque – and that’s on fuel alone, before nitrous enters the equation.

While the car is heavy for a GT-R (north of 4,000 lbs.), that’s still relatively low compared to other diesel-powered vehicles.

The factory block is fitted with a set of Mahle stock-bore, ceramic-coated pistons with valve reliefs cut in. The valves are operated by a Stage 2 billet camshaft, and it hits the Anderson HS lifters using Smith Brothers pushrods. A set of ARP 625+ head studs contain the heads and the valvetrain is covered by Riff Raff Diesel billet valve covers.

Fueling this setup is a set of 250cc 100% injectors and a compound turbocharger setup with a KC Turbo Jetfire Stage 1 as the primary and a BorgWarner 80mm atmosphere turbo working as the secondary to force air into the ODawg 6.4L inverted intake manifold. The intake system is so massive that its tubing is mounted inside the cabin, directly in front of Powelson.

A water sprayer is added in front of the intercooler to assist with keeping the charger air cool, making up for the lack of air as the car climbs in altitude up Pikes Peak. The Powerstroke engine is oiled thanks to a Terminator T500 high-pressure oil pump feeding 10w40 diesel oil. This is sent through a custom dry sump system that required the use of a Kill Devil Diesel dry sump front cover and custom-made oil pan.

The engine system is kept cool by using custom, rear-mounted radiators. But, even with the large radiator and custom ducting to feed air across it, the cooling becomes less efficient the higher you go on the mountain. To fix this, the Lyfe team also utilized a large water/ice tank to help cool the car.

Behind the 6.0L Powerstroke is a John Wood custom 4R100 four-speed automatic transmission, a step away from the AWD transmission that was originally used.

“We made plenty of power, but there were some other things that needed to be sorted out on the run, especially on the oil control side of things,” Powelson says. “With the amount of wide-open throttle time you spend and the high cornering forces, there’s just a lot to figure out with these engines.

“The oil system parts we used were good for a 10-second drag run, but they just weren’t up to the task for an 11-minute run up Pikes Peak at a hard pace. For next year, we’re keeping the turbo system and all that, but the oil system will get completely revamped to improve reliability.”

We’re excited to see where the Lyfe Motorsport team and Riff Raff Diesel are with the build by next year’s Pikes Peak, and we’ll definitely be following their progress closely.

If you’re interested in following this diesel-powered 2010 R35 GT-R build from start to finish, check out the Lyfe Motorsport YouTube Channel for the complete 10-part series.

Diesel of the Week is sponsored by AMSOIL. If you have an engine you’d like to highlight in this series, please email Engine Builder Editor Greg Jones at [email protected]

Diesel of the Week: Compound-Turbo VP44 5.9L Cummins Engine

Diesel of the Week: 1952 Chevy with a 6.7L Cummins Engine

Diesel of the Week: Single-Turbo 6.7L Cummins Pro Mod Engine

Diesel of the Week: Twin-Turbo LML Duramax Dragster Engine

Content for engine professionals and enthusiasts

We Have Professional Technology To Grasp The Quality And Create Classics

Modern Line Aesthetics, Simple But Not Simple Shape Design

Integrity, Innovation, Persistence And Unity

Compound Turbo 6.0L Powerstroke-Swapped R35 GT-R - Engine Builder Magazine

Featured Products

News & Blog

Chevrolet launches new 1,000 HP 632" large crate motor

Chevrolet launches 1,004 horsepower Crate engine, its most powerful ever

Chevrolet Performance launches 1,000 HP ZZ632 Crate engine

This new Chevrolet performance ZZ632 crate engine stands out!

2,000 HP GT500 Short Block-Engine Builder Magazine

Chevrolet launches its most powerful crate engine ever | Engine Powertrain Technology International

Soaring! Soaring! The 3065HP Greek supercar worth 14.4 million US dollars is chaos-breaking and latest news, Greece, Cyprus, Greek diaspora news

Twin-Turbo Gen III 5.0L Coyote Engine-Engine Builder Magazine

The customized BMW R 18 is wrapped in bronze gray, abandoning the retro style, and adopts a sci-fi look-automatic evolution

Chevrolet ZZ632/1000 Big-Block V8 Crate engine is priced at $37,758.72-automatic evolution