The steps that must not be skipped
The turbo’s oil feed pipe is thin and runs close to the hot exhaust manifold – over time the oil inside it cokes and narrows the bore. If it isn’t cleaned or replaced, the new turbo runs short of lubrication and fails quickly. The same goes for the oil drain: if it’s blocked, oil can’t drain away and escapes past the seals.
The intercooler and boost hoses often hold oil from the old turbo. If they’re not cleaned, that oil goes into the engine the first time you accelerate – and on a diesel this can cause the engine to run away.
The first start
- The turbo is filled with clean oil through the oil feed port before the pipe is fitted
- The engine is cranked for a few seconds without starting (where possible) to build oil pressure
- For the first few minutes the engine idles – we check for leaks, noise and pressure
- For the first kilometres – no high revs or hard acceleration
Why choose a specialist workshop
In a specialist turbo workshop, fitting and repair go hand in hand – we know which causes to look for, which parts to replace and how to verify the result. That gives your turbo the chance to last as long as the engine.
Frequently asked questions
Does the oil need changing when replacing a turbo?
Yes, always – together with the oil filter. The old oil may contain particles from the failed turbo.
Does the intercooler need cleaning?
Yes, when there’s oil in it. Otherwise the oil ends up in the new turbo and the engine.