How much boost pressure can a 1990 Vw jetta diesel take

[BradGarr]

Hello, I have a 1990 vw jetta diesel with no turbo on it I was thinking of putting one on I already found all the items I need I just don't want to blow my motor since I'm putting this kind of money in it. So how much psi can this engine take, 4 cylinder 8v 1.6L diesel

[theman53]

20psi keep the egt below 1300f for decent life

[Dakotakid]

Why don't you develop an interest in porting the head prior to talking boost?
You new guys are always trying to run a marathon on crutches.

[libbydiesel]

If you think about it a little the answer is quite obvious.  It's a darn sight less work and expense to install a manual boost controller and adjust the boost than it is to pull the head, disassemble it, port it, reassemble it, and reinstall it.  1/2 hour and $15 vs. 2 days and $100.  There are also a slew of special tools needed for doing the head and a serious risk of screwing it up and being out a whole lot of money and time.   

[vanbcguy]

There isn't a set amount of boost pressure that is safe. It has much more to do with the type of intercooler you are using (I hope you aren't trying to put 15+ PSI in to the engine without one) and which turbo you are using.

[One_punchmachinegun]

Funny thing is that I ran 21pounds in my 1Z swap no intercooler before I sold it. Nothing above 1600f@wot
Daily somewhere near 1200

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[One_punchmachinegun]

But was not the stock turbo, it was a K24

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[Dakotakid]

Well, that was what I was alluding to earlier. Turboing the bananas out of a tired engine is not the hot ticket. His original thought was that he did not want to injure the engine......probably a fairly clapped-out one at that. Because, along with boost, generally comes a desired increase in fuel.....and more heat and pressure......on worn rings in a worn bore with an old head gasket and stem seals.

I mean, spending time in the theoretical world is obviously nice for some folks........................I generally deal with reality.