Finally, a Modern Turbo for Early '99 7.3L Power Stroke Owners
Early '99 7.3L Power Stroke owners know the drill: new parts get released, but E99 trucks are often left waiting. KC Turbos decided it was time to change that. With the release of the Gen 3 KC300x Turbo for the Early '99 platform-and OBS options coming soon-E99 owners finally have a purpose-built, modern turbo solution.
Instead of simply announcing it on paper, KC Turbos put the Gen 3 KC300x to work in the same truck that helped shape its development, proving its performance where it actually matters: on the street, on the highway, and under load.
Built and Proven in the Real World
The development mule for the Gen 3 KC300x wasn't a shop queen-it was Jake's daily-driven Early '99 Ford. Running a prototype Stage 2 turbo, the truck was paired with a straightforward setup of 205/30 injectors and a Stage 1 HPOP. This wasn't controlled lab testing or light-duty use; it was daily driving, towing, and real-world abuse.
That real-world approach paid off. On the dyno, the truck laid down an impressive 506 horsepower, validating the turbo's ability to support strong power without sacrificing drivability.
Immediate Response and Strong Towing Performance
When it came time to describe how the Gen 3 KC300x performs, Jake didn't overthink it. His feedback was immediate and enthusiastic. Throttle response is sharp, with the turbo making around 20 psi of boost with minimal pedal input-exactly what most 7.3L owners want in a street-driven or work-focused truck.
Where the turbo really shines, though, is under load. Even while pulling, the truck was able to maintain 75 mph up a 7% grade without issue-numbers that resonate with anyone who regularly tows or hauls with their 7.3L.
A Clear Step Forward from Previous Generations
For those familiar with KC Turbos' earlier offerings, the improvement is undeniable. Compared to previous-generation units, the Gen 3 KC300x delivers faster spool-up, improved drivability, and better overall responsiveness.
According to Jake, the difference between generations isn't subtle-it's dramatic. The new Gen 3 Stage 2 spools quicker and drives better than even the older Gen 2 Stage 1, showing that the gains aren't limited to peak horsepower but extend to everyday performance.
Bringing New Life to the Legendary 7.3L
The Gen 3 KC300x project is a reminder of why the 7.3L Power Stroke remains so popular. While a stock truck can feel sluggish by modern standards, it doesn't take a brand-new pickup to have fun-or to get serious work done.
KC Turbos designed the Gen 3 KC300x to wake up the legendary 7.3L V8, giving Early '99 owners a drop-in turbo that delivers modern performance, improved drivability, and real towing capability. It's a solution built to make these trucks faster, more enjoyable to drive, and far more capable-without losing what made them great in the first place.