Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Need to Know About Turbochargers
We’ve taken some of the questions we get asked most frequently and compiled them in one place.
How To Maintain Your Turbo?
Turbocharger maintenance is important to keep the turbo functioning properly and extend its lifespan. Some common maintenance tasks for a turbo include:
1. Changing The Oil And Filter
The oil in the engine is used to lubricate and cool the internal components of the turbo, so it’s important to keep it clean and at the proper level. Changing the oil and filter at regular intervals can help prevent contaminants from entering the turbo and causing damage.
2. Checking For Leaks
It’s important to regularly inspect the turbo for any oil or coolant leaks, as these can lead to problems such as a lack of lubrication or overheating.
3. Inspecting The Intercooler
The intercooler is a device that cools the compressed air from the turbo before it enters the engine. It’s a good idea to inspect the intercooler for any debris or blockages that may reduce its effectiveness.
4. Checking The Boost Level
Boost refers to the increase in pressure of the air entering the engine, which is achieved by the turbo. If the boost level is set too high, it can put excessive strain on the turbo and cause it to overheat or fail. It’s a good idea to regularly check the boost level to ensure it is within the proper range.
5. Replacing Worn Out Components
Over time, the internal components of a turbo can wear out and need to be replaced. This may include the bearings, seals, and blades. It’s important to regularly inspect the turbo and replace any worn-out components to ensure it is functioning properly.
By following a regular maintenance schedule and addressing any issues that arise, it’s possible to extend the lifespan of a turbo and ensure it is operating at its best.
Why Do Turbochargers Fail?
There are several reasons why a turbocharger may fail. Here are some common causes of turbo failure:
1. Lack of Lubrication
Lack of lubrication in a turbocharger can occur when the turbo is not receiving an adequate supply of oil. This can happen for several reasons, such as a faulty oil pump, a clogged oil filter, or a malfunctioning oil pressure sensor.
Turbochargers rely on a constant supply of oil to lubricate and cool their internal components, such as the bearings and blades. Without sufficient lubrication, these components can become damaged and fail. Lack of lubrication can also lead to overheating, as the oil helps to dissipate heat generated by the turbo.
To prevent a lack of lubrication in a turbo, it’s important to regularly check and maintain the oil and oil filter in the engine. This may include replacing the oil and filter at regular intervals and checking the oil pressure to ensure that it is within the proper range. It’s also a good idea to check for any issues that could cause a loss of oil pressure, such as a faulty oil pump or a malfunctioning oil pressure sensor.
2. Overheating
Overheating in a turbocharger can occur when the turbo becomes too hot and suffers damage as a result. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of coolant, a malfunctioning cooling system, or excessive boost levels.
Turbochargers generate a lot of heat as they compress the air entering the engine. This heat is typically dissipated by the oil that lubricates the turbo’s internal components, as well as by the cooling system. If the oil becomes contaminated or if the cooling system is not functioning properly, the turbo can become overheated.
Excessive boost levels can also cause a turbo to overheat. Boost refers to the increase in pressure of the air entering the engine, which is achieved by the turbo. If the boost level is set too high, it can put excessive strain on the turbo and cause it to overheat.
Overheating in a turbo can lead to damage or failure of the internal components, such as the bearings and blades. It can also cause the turbo to produce smoke or burning smells, as the excess heat can cause the oil to burn off.
To prevent overheating in a turbo, it’s important to ensure that the cooling system is functioning properly and that the oil is clean and at the proper level. It’s also a good idea to avoid operating the turbo at excessively high boost levels. If the turbo does overheat, it may be necessary to replace damaged components and address any issues that may have caused the overheating.
3. Foreign Object Damage
Foreign object damage in a turbocharger occurs when a foreign object, such as a rock or debris, enters the turbo and causes damage to the internal components. This can happen if the object becomes lodged in the turbo, or if it impacts the blades or other components as it passes through.
Foreign object damage can cause a variety of issues, including reduced efficiency, loss of power, and potentially even failure of the turbo. It can also create smoke or burning smells, as the object can be burnt off when it comes into contact with the hot exhaust gases.
To prevent foreign object damage in a turbo, it’s important to regularly check for and remove any debris that may have entered the turbo. This may involve inspecting the intake and exhaust system for any foreign objects, as well as cleaning out the intercooler and other components. It’s also a good idea to check for any issues that may allow debris to enter the turbo, such as a damaged air filter or a faulty air intake hose.
4. Wear and Tear
Wear and tear in a turbocharger refers to the gradual deterioration of the internal components of the turbo due to normal use over time. This can include the bearings, seals, and blades, among other components.
Turbochargers are subjected to a lot of stress as they compress the air entering the engine, and this can cause wear and tear on the internal components. Factors that can accelerate wear and tear include high boost levels, frequent high-stress operations, and poor maintenance.
As the internal components of a turbo wear out, they can become less efficient and potentially even fail. This can lead to reduced performance and potentially even engine failure if the problem is not addressed.
To prevent wear and tear in a turbo, it’s important to follow a regular maintenance schedule and replace worn-out components as needed. This may include changing the oil and filter, as well as inspecting the turbo for any issues. It’s also a good idea to avoid operating the turbo at excessively high boost levels or subjecting it to high levels of stress.
5. Manufacturing Defects
Manufacturing defects in turbochargers refer to problems with the design or construction of the turbo that result in it not functioning properly. These defects can occur during the production process, and may not be immediately apparent when the turbo is installed.
Manufacturing defects in a turbo can cause a variety of issues, such as reduced efficiency, loss of power, and potentially even failure of the turbo. They can also create smoke or burning smells, as the defective components may be burnt off when they come into contact with the hot exhaust gases.
To prevent problems caused by manufacturing defects in a turbo, it’s important to purchase a quality product from a reputable manufacturer. It’s also a good idea to follow a regular maintenance schedule and address any issues that may arise with the turbo. If a manufacturing defect is suspected, it may be necessary to replace the defective component or the entire turbo.
To prevent turbo failure, it’s important to regularly maintain the turbo and address any issues that may arise. This may include changing the oil and filter, checking for leaks, and replacing worn-out components as needed. It’s also important to avoid operating the turbo at excessively high boost levels or subjecting it to high levels of stress.