Will a 6.5 turbo system work on an 80's 6.2?

The bolt patterns and port sizes are all the same. So yes, it will bolt right up to any 6.2. The exhaust flow and other dynamic processes are very similar between the 6.2 and 6.5, which means the performance would also be similar.

However, there are three problems with using a 6.5 factory turbocharger on a 6.2 in a 1980's truck.

1- The turbo sits very near the A/C housing and will require some modification to the housing to gain the necessary clearance. Non-A/C trucks will be unaffected.

2- The injector angles and length of the 6.2 injectors on a 6.2 head puts the injector fuel line fittings uncomfortably close to the turbo side exhaust manifold, and may even touch in at least one spot.

3- A special downpipe needs to be made to clear the frame rail. The stock 6.5 downpipe won't work without modifications.

I know of at least two people who are running a 6.5 turbocharger on a 6.2 engine in an 80's style truck. One installed 6.2 van injectors, which are shorter in length, along with the addition of the stock 6.5 heat shield. This gave him enough clearance to satisfy him.

Another member from Australia made a 1/4" exhaust manifold spacer used between the exhaust manifold and the head. This works well for him. Of course installing a set of 6.5 heads would simplify the installation.

Jim