I know there is a company that makes remote mount turbo kits for gasser motors and they perform very well. the turbos are even mounted at the rear of the vehicle. Lots of plumbing to mess with. They installed and tested one on Horsepower tv a while back. It was on a Camaro and they were very surprised as they too talked about the heat issue to spool the turbo. I think it may be optimal to have them as close as possible, but they still work very well along way back.
I don't remember the name of the company, but I think they make a universal kit. If you searched remote turbo I think you would find the link.
Jeff
