Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Turbo Shaft Play

[WMonroe]

I noticed today that my turbo shaft has some up and down play in it. I'm guessing 1/32" to maybe 1/16" (i didn't have a precise way to measure it). There isn't any rub marks on the inside so nothing is hitting. Also this is on the intake side.

Is this normal?

Thanks

Will

 

[RJPotts]

I would say that is considerable play, especially if your guess is even close to accurate.

If there's play on the compressor side, there is also play on the turbine side, unless the shaft is bent, which it unlikely.

By up and down do you mean you can grab the nut and move it up and down (axial play). I would figure out what specs are for this turbo, get a dial indicator and check it. You don't want the turbo coming apart on you.

-R. J.

 

[WMonroe]

Yes all the movement is "axial". I can't "feel" any fore to aft movement, it feels tight that way. There are no marks in the housing where it hit so i'm sure it hasn't made any contact. Is there a kit to do the rebuild? How hard of a process is it?

When I spin the compressor wheel is spins smoothly, if that makes any difference.

The truck has about 177,000 miles.

Thanks

Will

 

[Matthug]

That seems a little excessive, but probably not ''about to blow up'' bad. Turbo's rarely die from shaft play and catostrophic failure, normally a seal blows and you get oil everywhere. Typically the up and down shaft play isn't as important as the in and out play, and since you have no play in and out I'd say you are OK to run that turbo for awhile yet.

Was the turbo cold when you checked it? You have to bear in mind that when it's cold it will have slightly more shaft play because heat makes metals expand and then it will tighten up some. Also, some shaft play isn't to worry about, as long as you have an engine with good oil pressure the pressure keeps the shaft centered. Thats why it hasn't hit the housing.