KKK vs Air Research - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Ian White · #1 03-19-2009, 09:09 PM

Is there any difference in the bolt up ability between the two turbos? Are they completely interchangeable? And were is the best place to find a KKK. I have heard the KKK's spool a bit faster. Is it significant enough for me to wait to find one or go get a readily available Garrett for $100.

Your input is needed and very appreciated!

turbobenz · #2 03-20-2009, 12:47 AM

Well I own a 81 300SD with an 84 300D motor in it. In 84 they used the air research and in 81 I think they used kkk turbos. I do have ONE problem which I CANNOT fix. I think the turbo sits a tad tad tad higher therefore causing my exhaust to bump the under body when I hit bumps. Sometimes it decides to go into chronic episodes (when it rains which is weird) and continually rubs on it, which is LOUD. Ive tried installing more brakcets etc etc but it looks like I really have to modify something to fix it. Just a warning

Ian White · #3 03-20-2009, 12:57 AM

ya did you notice a performance increase with the KKK? or should I just get the ole air research on there and go with something I know will work?

DeliveryValve · #4 03-20-2009, 01:07 AM

Either turbo was a factory installed piece. The triple K does spool up faster, but it does give the top end power that a Garrett gives. If your looking for quicker stop and go acceleration, triple K. If your looking for max power through the upper RPM ranges, Garrett. So if you are in City stop and go driving, triple K. For highway cruising, steep mountain climbing, other types along that line, Garrett.

Ian White · #5 03-20-2009, 01:43 AM

Okay personally why is the kkk harder to find I cannot get a hold of one to save my life! Also is there any preference out there on which is a better turbo? Also how much more bottom end power does a KKK produce. A little or really noticeable? Does the KKK spool night and day compared to the Garrett or just barely noticeable?

THANKS!

#6 03-20-2009, 05:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ian White

Okay personally why is the kkk harder to find I cannot get a hold of one to save my life!

I have a good one that I used before converting to a VNT. Make an offer.

ImBroke · #7 03-20-2009, 07:29 AM

Out of the 8 diesel's I've had, only 1 had a KKK. That was a wagon. Not that there is any link between wagons and KKK's. Maybe at the factory they just had a big pile of turbos, and put whatever they grabbed on?

Ian White · #8 03-20-2009, 12:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ForcedInduction

I have a good one that I used before converting to a VNT. Make an offer.

PM SENT,

Also did you notice a performance increase using the KKK. I;m also considering modifying my IP. Probably change the fuel rack settings.

Any help is appreciated!

Simpler=Better · #9 03-20-2009, 09:47 PM

I have a working Garrett from my VNT swap....

Ian White · #10 03-21-2009, 01:22 AM

??

#11 03-21-2009, 04:48 AM

It does spool faster than the garrett so drivability is better. But if you're looking for high performance neither the T3 or K26 are what to use, they are both 1970's designs. Modern GTxx turbos are far more efficient.
That said, both the T3 and K26 can flow enough air for everything the injection pump can throw at it.

There is an 81 300SD in the junkyard here with a seized K26 and I've seen an 81 300TD with a K26 as well. Until I saw that TD I was sure it was an 83-85 only deal.

There is also a 2.5L Maserati Biturbo in the yards. I was thinking of grabbing the two tiny IHI turbos if they are good, just for S&G. They would be great for a Biturbo 240D project.

Ian White · #12 03-21-2009, 11:23 AM

Lance, PM Sent.