turbo

[mjc1055]

What, exactly, is the difference between a blowoff-valve and a wastegate?

[mjc1055]

i know you guys are pretty knowledgeable here, help a newbie out

[cdaw2001ES]

I believe a waste gate - goes on the exhaust side, this controls the flow of exhaust to the turbo, or diverts excess around to your exhaust system, controls max boost level

A blow off goes on the intake side, and "blows off" extra pressure when you suddenly close the throttle - this lets the turbo keep spinning. You can vent to atmosphere, or back in to the turbo loop.