yes, the turbo was custom, built in my own garage, first with an oxy-ace torch, then with a mig (made things go faster, but uglier, wish i had a tig at my disposal)
i don't think i'd be into mass producing those in-my-garage.. though perhaps one *someone* on this list will have enough interest to work with me on it.. no real plans at this point though..
there's definitely A LOT of plumbing if the turbo system uses the stock HE, run all the way to the back of the car, than the turbo, than back to the intake..
there's also the problem of oil drainage if the turbo's placed in the back of the car right after the HE, the oil in most turbos are gravity drained.. it's hard to get rid of that oil if the turbo is at the same level as the motor.. and it also makes a -long- oil line to the turbo..
lots of people *think* about building their own turbo setup.. you guys have no idea how many e-mails i get with questions.. which surprises ME since i have no web-site setup.. every six months or so, i get a swarm of e-mails as the turbo subject becomes popular.. but when it comes right down to it.. not many people step up to the plate, because it's all custom.. there's no instant gratification.. and it means the 914 will be out of commission for a while.. so, as it stands, i think there's *still* only 4 turbo-914's.. 1 draw through (carb), 2 CIS setup, and mine, with the D-jet..
perhaps if a bolt-up KIT was made available, there'll be a lot more turbos on the road.. the idea sure -sounds- nice..
Hi Brad..
