I have to replace my BB exhaust manifold gasket and while I've got the turbo off I want to inspect it. What should I look for to see if it's in good condition? I know there will be a certain amount of "play" I assume in the turbine. How much is acceptable? Any suggestions on this?

Thanks

Originally posted by sr20detutah
I have to replace my BB exhaust manifold gasket and while I've got the turbo off I want to inspect it. What should I look for to see if it's in good condition? I know there will be a certain amount of "play" I assume in the turbine. How much is acceptable? Any suggestions on this?

Thanks

Pull the compressor wheel back and forth. There should be no more than about 0.003" of axial free play. This is the absolute limit. If the turbo is in really good shape, there will be no discernable end play whatsoever.

You should have only about 0.005" of radial (side-to-side) end play.

A turbo with good bearing will have no discernable axial play and very little side-to-side. The turbo should also spin freely, and have no visible damage done to the wheels. Also, check your exhaust elbow and outlet pipe for oil. There should be very little in the compressor pipe, and none in the turbine.

There has to be a special measuring tool to measure those tolerances right? What sould I use?

Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

Originally posted by sr20detutah
There has to be a special measuring tool to measure those tolerances right? What sould I use?

Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

Dial indicator on a stand will work.

Or you can just use your judgement. You should feel very very little free play.