The Holset HE300VG is the variable-geometry turbo that came on 2013–2018 6.7L Cummins trucks, and it's one of the most-searched turbos in the diesel world — partly because it works well, and partly because it has a few well-known weak spots. This guide is the hub: it explains what the HE300VG is, the problems owners run into, how to fix them, and the upgrade paths that take a 6.7L Cummins from stock to reliable extra power without stepping outside emissions-legal territory.
Quick answer: The HE300VG is the factory VGT on 2013–2018 6.7L Cummins engines. Owners upgrade it to cure VGT sticking/actuator failures, add airflow for towing, and raise power headroom. The main paths are cleaning/rebuilding the stock unit, adding a billet compressor wheel, or fitting a drop-in replacement like the True North Turbos HE300VG 63mm.
Start here: what the HE300VG is
If you're new to the platform, read What Is the HE300VG Turbo? for the applications, how the variable geometry works, and how it differs from the earlier HE351VE that came on 2007.5–2012 trucks.
Common HE300VG problems
Most HE300VG issues trace back to the variable-geometry system — either sticking vanes from soot build-up or a failing actuator. Symptoms include low boost, a weak exhaust brake, limp mode, and codes like P003A. Full diagnosis and fixes are in HE300VG Actuator & VGT Problems, and prevention is covered in How to Prevent HE300VG VGT Sticking.
Upgrade paths
- Billet compressor wheel & rebuild — refresh a tired turbo and pick up airflow. See Billet Wheel & Rebuild Upgrades.
- Drop-in replacement — the cleanest path to reliability plus power. The TNT HE300VG 63mm Drop-In fits 2007.5–2018 6.7L Cummins trucks and keeps the factory VGT behaviour and exhaust brake. Compare options in Best HE300VG Drop-In Turbo Upgrades.
- Supporting mods — get the most from any turbo with the right supporting mods for towing and power.
How much power can it make?
The stock HE300VG has a real airflow ceiling. Where it runs out and what to do about it is covered in HE300VG Power Limits.
Keeping it emissions-legal
Turbo upgrades can absolutely be done while keeping your truck road-legal. For how that works — and how Canada differs from the US — see Emissions-Legal Diesel Turbo Upgrades in Canada.
Where to buy
Black Sheep Industries builds True North Turbos in-house. Browse the TNT Cummins turbo collection or go straight to the HE300VG 63mm drop-in.
Frequently asked questions
What trucks came with the HE300VG?
It's the factory variable-geometry turbo on 2013–2018 6.7L Cummins engines in Ram 2500/3500 trucks. The 2007.5–2012 trucks used the HE351VE.
Is the HE300VG a good turbo?
Yes — it spools quickly, supports exhaust braking, and tows well from the factory. Its weak points are VGT vane sticking and actuator wear, both of which are fixable or upgradeable.
Should I repair or upgrade my HE300VG?
Repair isolated failures on a low-mileage turbo; upgrade if it's high-mileage, has failed repeatedly, or you want more towing airflow and power headroom.