Archived Question: Turbo=Toast Replace intercooler?

[Pickrell]

Hello everyone,

Recently my stock turbo went out, I was told it was because of the K&N airfilter put in. But they also told me it would be much safer to replace the intercooler, because there could be metal or oil in the intercooler that could ruin my engine or cause a runaway. I was wondering what the general concensus was from all the true experts on here. Should I replace it, clean it out, or just run it as is? Also, if it needs replaced or cleaned out, does it need replaced or cleaned before I drive it? I have ben taking it easy, and have put less than ten miles on it since I got it back with the new turbo. Do I have anything to worry about?

Thanks for all your help,

Brent

 

[mjoppie]

what happened to the turbo? did the shaft snap or did the fins break off? mine went just the other day, the shaft snapped and nothing happened just changed it and was on my way 20 min later, i have never had my truck run away from oil in the intercooler, and ive had more oil in it than probably anyone on this site. (the oil return line twisted and got plugged, fed it oil for about 3miles on i69) if none of the blades chipped or broke off i wouldnt be scared to just replace it and drive it.



matt

 

[Pickrell]

I don't know if the fins broke off, necessarily. There are big parts of a couple of the fins missing, but I couldn't tell you if they broke off, or if they were eaten away by dirt that the K&N let through (according to the dealer). The dealer is always eager to replace as much as they can (I am sure you are aware) which is why I am asking all of you if it is necessary to spend this money, or if it is just a way for the dealer to get some extra cash after replacing the turbo. In any case I appreciate all the help.

Thanks,

Brent

 

[Sticks]

Did you actually get to see the Turbo, and did someone point out the things that were wrong as compared to a turbo that was not broke?

 

[Pickrell]

Yes,

The turbo is sitting here in my hotel room. (I am currently TDY in the Air Force, and this turbo broke after my 1200 mile journey here). It looks as if the pieces of the turbo that are gone were ground away by the housing itself. It looks like the center section had enough play that the shaft wobbled so that the compressor itself hit the inside of the housing. This turbo is probably just trash, but if anyone wants it for any reason, I'll send it to you free if you pay for shipping. If I don't hear from anyone I'll probably throw it away in a day or two.

If anyone has any insight on whether or not I should drive it before cleaning out the interooler please let me know.

Thanks,

Brent

 

[Jetpilot]

Pull the intercooler and turbo boots and check them for oil. If they are clean you really don't need to worry about the runaway. My main concern would be where are the pieces that are missing from the turbo..... The dealer should have cleaned the intercooler if it was needed. I would try and locate the missing fins but my guess is that if you haven't hurt the engine as of yet you are ok. There is no way you need a new intercooler though.



Doug