Have You Fixed the Issue That Caused Your Turbocharger to Fail?
Turbochargers are designed to last for the service life of the engine. When a turbocharger fails, it is important to look past obvious damage to locate and fix the root cause of the failure. In most cases, the cause of turbocharger failure originates from an installation error, improper vehicle systems, or improper operation of the vehicle, details about which are listed below.
LACK OF LUBE / CONTAMINATED OIL
Often caused by issues related to:
Low engine oil pressure/level
Obstructed oil supply/drain line
Improper weight of oil
Fast starts in cold weather
Hot shutdown (engine shut off at high rpm)
Engine blow-by
FOREIGN BODY IN EXHAUST / AIR INLET
Often caused by foreign particles entering the turbine or compressor stages during or after installation, such as:
Screws or nuts
Sand or dirt
Metal powder or shavings
Pieces of broken air filters
Compressor wheel lock nut
HIGH EXHAUST TEMPERATURE
Often caused by issues related to:
Incorrect fuel ratio (high fuel setting)
Insufficient air supply (caused by a plugged air cleaner, etc.)
A leak in the intake manifold or piping
Excessive exhaust restrictions
Plugged aftercooler core
DEFECTIVE WORKMANSHIP / MATERIAL
While rare, the visible evidence is often easy to recognize. Causes include:
Compressor wheel lock nut failure (nut is missing & there is damage to the vanes)
One-sided wear on the compressor housing
Back plate bolt is loosened and contacted the back of compressor wheel
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Have You Fixed the Issue That Caused Your Turbocharger to Fail?