Big Turbo Project

[Diesel_Junkie]

OK,,,, I think it finally time for me to do my turbo project... . I am planning to go to a smaller turbo housing... add an exhaust brake and add gages all at the same time... . Plus I have aproblem and need to ask a question... .



When I change my oil I routinely take the intake tube off of the compressor side of the turbo to access the oil filter... when it is off I usually check the bearings in the turbo... . lately I have foud a little bit of play in the radial direction, but no end play... should I assume that this bearing play is REALLY BAD and that I need to fix this soon?????? or is this normal???? In either case... does anyone no how easy this is to fix myself... . I used to be a pro-wrench... but my turbo and diesel repair skil sets are non existant. So I am learing.

 

[Lil' Dog]

Radial clearances aren't the problem typically. I don't know what the allowable radial clearance is, you would normally check it with a dial through the oil feed hole and lift the shaft at the compressor and turbine ends. The axial clearance is pretty sensitive though, usually less than 0. 002". My 89 has a little play in the radial, none in the axial. The 93 seems tighter in the radial but it has way less hours. I don't know how many hours are on your unit, but I wouldn't worry about it unless you know that the truck was abused in its former life.



Good luck and welcome the the BOMBers. LOL

 

[CRWilliams]

I just did pretty much everything you are talking about and more. I actually did the guages, turbo housing, exhaust brake and a bunch of wiring in 2 days. Have you already got all of your parts? If you need any tips or suggestions let me know.

 

[Jones]

Hey Diesel Junkie,

FYI. According to my big Cummins manual, the acceptable side play at the compressor end is . 012" min. to . 018" max. If you need it, end play is . 004" min. to . 006" max. on turbos up to ser. no. 840637 . 001" min. to . 003" max. on turbos ser. no. 840638 and after. If yours needs bearing work the way to go is to replace the "cartridge" that's the turbo center section complete. all you do is stick your exhaust and compressor housings on it, stick it back on. Don't forget to pre-lube the turbo bearings by pouring an oz. or so of oil into the inlet fitting! And go.

Hope this helps, Jones