The 6.7 Cummins turbo actuator is the electronic motor on the variable geometry turbo that moves its sliding nozzle to control boost and the exhaust brake. When it fails, the usual signs are a check engine light with turbo actuator codes, loss of power or reduced-power mode, an exhaust brake that stops working and erratic boost. A sticking nozzle inside the turbo, often from soot, causes the same symptoms, so test the actuator before replacing it, and calibrate any new actuator with a scan tool.
How the actuator works
On 2007.5 to 2012 Ram trucks the 6.7 uses a Holset HE351VE variable geometry turbo, and 2013 to 2018 trucks use the HE300VG. In both, the engine computer commands the actuator, which slides the nozzle to change how exhaust gas hits the turbine wheel: closed for quick boost and exhaust braking, open at high flow. See variable geometry turbos explained and which 6.7 Cummins turbo fits your truck.
Turbo actuator symptoms
- Check engine light with turbo actuator or boost control codes.
- Loss of power or reduced-power mode; see diesel loses power.
- Exhaust brake weak or not working; see exhaust brakes.
- Boost too low or too high; see P0299 and P0234.
- No self-test sweep, or grinding and clicking from the actuator, at key-on on trucks that do the sweep.
Actuator or sticking turbo?
Soot can build up on the sliding nozzle, especially with lots of idling and short trips, until the actuator cannot move it. Many technicians check this by commanding the actuator with a scan tool and watching or measuring its movement. If the actuator moves freely when detached but the nozzle is stiff, the turbo needs cleaning or replacement rather than a new actuator.
Common causes of actuator failure
- Heat reaching the electronics over time.
- Worn internal gears from fighting a sticking nozzle.
- Wiring and connector damage near the hot turbo.
- Low system voltage confusing the actuator’s self-test.
- On versions with coolant lines to the actuator, a leak or restriction that lets it overheat.
Replacing and calibrating
A new actuator generally needs a calibration or learn procedure with a capable scan tool so it knows the nozzle’s end positions. Without it, boost and the exhaust brake may not work properly. Fix any soot or sticking first, or the new actuator will fail the same way.
Replacing the turbo
If the turbo itself is worn, sooted beyond cleaning or damaged, a complete turbo is the fix. We list the Fleece Performance 63mm FMW HE351VE VGT Cheetah Turbocharger for 2007.5-2012 6.7L Cummins ($3,099.00) and the HE300VG version for 2013-2018 trucks ($3,099.00). Check each listing for what is included.
Related
See turbo failure symptoms, 6.7 Cummins problems and 6.7 Cummins engines.
Shipping is a flat $80.00 per order to US addresses, with 15-day free returns. Questions? Ask a parts specialist.