Do I need a new turbocharger?

[Motorhead]

I pulled my truck apart today to replace my A/C compressor and to flush my cooling system. I pulled the A/C condenser (to internally and externally clean it), radiator and I decided to also pull the intercooler. when I pulled the intercooler, I saw some oil in the turbo side of the intercooler and the piping from the turbo to cooler. I also saw some in the cooled side tube. I have 60,000 miles, truck signature below. I am still under the extended warranty (engine and drivetrain). I want to put a better turbo maybe the Garrett ball bearing model. Is this oiling issue normal?

 

[JJPage]

Yes, time for a replacement... check for shaft play(axial) to be certain, but oil in the boost hose and intercooler can only originate from oil by-passing the thrust bushings in the turbo. This can also be a dangerous scenario, it can feed oil directly to the intake(through the intercooler) and cause a runaway, though I know of no such incident, but in theory.



I cannot recommend a good replacement, there are so many... depends on lot's of factors.

 

[cerberusiam]

Depends if you are using an oiled filter instead of dry. Turbo is highly suspect if you use a dry air filter. Might check the drain hose also to make sure it is no kinked or plugged. That will push oil into the intake tract.

 

[Motorhead]

Depends if you are using an oiled filter instead of dry. Turbo is highly suspect if you use a dry air filter. Might check the drain hose also to make sure it is no kinked or plugged. That will push oil into the intake tract.

I use Fleetguard dry paper filters always. I think that it must be the thrust bearing failing. No oil is present on the compressor fan of the turbo. I also highly doubt that the drain is kinked or plugged. Do you think running a Pacbrake PRXB hastened the turbo failure?

Do you guys think that putting a Garrett stage 2 turbo would void my remaining engine warranty?

 

[Prairie Dog]

Exhaust brake doesn't put any undue stress on anything.

 

[cerberusiam]

Do you guys think that putting a Garrett stage 2 turbo would void my remaining engine warranty?

From your signature your warranty is worthless now anyway, thats not even a consideration. I think the Garret is an excellent replacement chice.