Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Turbo Noise

[BoeingDiesel]

On my way back from Baja I noticed that @ 1850-2100 rpm I was getting a high pitched whine from the front of my truck. I ruled out the tire/wheel bearing possibility by running in a lower gear but same rpm range and sure enough, the whine is still there. There is only 500 miles on the oil,filter, and belt, but there isn't much resistence on the fan clutch tho'. What really concerns me is that I removed the ell to check the turbo intake and although there is no apparent air filter issues, there is oil on the impeller stator ring. I cleaned that as much as possible and washed out the ell. When I went to put eveything back together I noticed that on several impeller blades there was a drop of oil on them. Is this normal?? If I do need to replace my HX-35 can I do this myself?

I do most of my own wrenching, service, brakes, etc.

 

[BillGotthelf]

You did not say if you were using an oiled air filter element like the K&N or AFE. If you are running a stock air filter oil on the turbo blades is not normal. You could have a leaky seal caused by wear of the bearings on the turbo shaft. You can buy a replacement cartridge for your turbo (shaft, bearings and wheel). But if you are gonna do it right call Piers and get one (a complete turbo) from him. They will make sure its balanced properly.

 

[BoeingDiesel]

You're right... I didn't mention air filter type which is a K&N, but I don't think that there is any contamination coming from it.

I found Piers and will be calling them tomrrow. Thanks for the feedback!

 

[bmoeller]

It is possible to over oil them. It can coat the compressor wheel.

 

[BillGotthelf]

Evan if you do not "over oil" them you will still get a fine layer of oil, then fine particles, on the turbo blades. Another way to check is pull the boots off below the turbo and intercooler area. Check the inside of the rubber boots and the sort length of pipe for oil. I found that running an oiled air filter I had no residue on the intake side of the intercooler but had some on the turbo side.