Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Turbo end play check

[Grinder1]

In the planning stages of replacing shrunken exhaust manifold. Thought I'd check out Turbo while I'm at it. I do have some noticeable shaft end play on the intake side, haven't checked it on the exhaust side yet (still fully installed). My Dodge factory service manual calls for . 004"-. 006" shaft clearance. How do you guys check a factory turbo for wear? My Cummins connection says that they just go by feel. My truck only has 123K miles on it.

 

[Grinder1]

Hi folks, still REALLY need some help with this question. Bottom line is, should you be able to feel any turbocharger shaft end play on the air intake side? I need to know ASAP. Thanks

 

[JJPage]

Grinder, It's okay to have side to side (radial) shaft play, as long as the compressor wheel is not contacting the housing. You should not have any, or very little (less than 1/32") end to end (axial) shaft play.

Excessive axial play will result in oil by-passing the thrust bushings and either dumping oil into your intake, exhaust, or both. You do not want to have to clean up the mess if it gets into your intake, besides it's dangerous if you start feeding your injectors crankcase oil with fuel (runaway).

 

[Grinder1]

Thanks JJ. I'll have a closer look at it.