Answering the Question. Stage 2 VS the smallest Stage 3 Hybrid Injectors

The 7.3 Powerstroke Stage 3 205/30’s will deliver the same if not better power than a Stage 2 180/80-100 all while doing it more efficiently. The 205 are a hybrid and use considerably less high pressure oil than an A code injector.  


This means your truck will maintain higher ICP with a smaller high pressure oil pump.  Also by utilizing a smaller nozzle with the larger flow rate you gain more fuel volume at the nozzle resulting in better atomization.  Atomization is ideal in the quest to more power with cooler egt’s and less smoke. 


The Stage 2 180cc injectors are still a lower flow rate and with the larger nozzle.  This combination typically runs rather hot and smokey.  This additional smoke is usually frown upon for the lower power they make.  Besides these drawn backs the Stage 2 injector will untimely require an upgraded HPOP to maintain desired ICP over time.


The winner seems to be the 205CC Stage 3 Injectors in most cases.


205CC Hybrids Feature:
More Power
Higher Fuel Atomization
Potentially better fuel economy 
Less Smoke
Capable of running on the factory HPOP
Less strain on the HPOP system
Lower EGT’s