Installing a blow-off valve (BOV) could significantly increase the life expectancy of your turbocharger. Believe it or not, this tiny device can save you a ton of frustration. No one likes seeing a trail of smoke behind their machine due to a bad turbo or being stranded when your charge pipe pops off. While the turbocharger on a UTV is fairly accessible compared to your car, the cost to replace it is where things can get a little pricey.

Finding an OEM turbo can be quite the task and you typically will only find used options available. The only other choice you are left with is an upgraded turbo which will require better fuel injectors, fuel pump, and tuning. All these components add up quickly compared to the cost of a BOV kit for your machine and could mean you get an extra 50k miles out of your turbocharger.

What Does a BOV do?

When you release the throttle, there is charge air that builds up and has nowhere to go. This oftentimes will cause the charge tube to pop off the throttle body or the compressor side of your turbo depending on where the excess pressure is built up. It’s one thing to have a small boost leak, but when the charge pipe pops off, you are going to be stuck working on getting it back on.

Take a Look At Our YouTube Video Going Into Further Detail

A blow-off valve will release that excess pressure efficiently and eliminate the chances of your charge pipe popping off. It will also prevent a surge of air from flowing back into the turbocharger after the throttle has been shut. Most turbocharged UTVs utilize a closed charge system which will lead to your charge pipe popping off at some point.

The surge of air in the turbocharger will try to stop the impeller wheel from turning and put additional stress on your impeller wheel and shaft. This “surge” is commonly identified by a fluttering noise produced by your turbo. While it does sound cool, it is causing damage internally that you can’t directly see until it’s too late.

View Aftermarket BOV Options Here

More specifically, there is a valve inside with a spring that can usually be adjusted. This spring will determine the rate at which it releases pressure. If the spring is loose it will slowly release the boost with a subtle whoosh, at a higher spring pressure the valve will open and close quickly delivering a more aggressive “pshhh”

Do I Need a BOV?

If you plan on keeping your machine for an extended period of time, you absolutely need a BOV as it will increase the longevity of your turbo. If you plan on upgrading the turbo, you can get away with not installing a BOV but it is still highly recommended as it will be needed in the future. Most BOV kits are offered with a silicone tube to replace your existing charge tube which is also a common weak point.