While modern turbochargers are highly evolved systems that provide relatively trouble-free service for the lifetime of your engine, it’s good to be able to recognize the symptoms of turbocharger troubles and their causes, to simplify repair of one of your vehicle’s key performance improvement systems. Very often, a turbocharger problem is the result of an issue elsewhere in the system, and will recur unless the underlying issue is addressed.
Exhaust Smoke – Black
There are a lot of issues that can cause excessive black particulate in your vehicles exhaust. Look to the air filter system and the supply of oil to the turbocharger, as well as damage to the unit itself. Often the turbine housing, flap, or turbocharger bearing will have failed, or the boost pressure control swing valve isn’t closing properly. This problem can also be caused by problems elsewhere in the engine – worn valve guides, piston rings, or cylinder walls can cause blow by that manifests itself as black smoke.
Exhaust Smoke – Blue
Blue smoke can be caused by a number of factors, including overall engine wear. Turbocharger related causes of this symptom include dirty compressors, excessive exhaust flow resistance, or bearing damage. Look out for dirty air filter systems, or a buildup of coke and sludge buildup in the turbocharger housing.
Excessive Boost Pressure
If your boost pressure is too high, the likely cause is in the swing or poppet valve or the associated pipe assembly to it. It could also be caused by a fuel injection problem.
Defective Compressor or Turbine Wheels
The high-speed spinning parts of the turbo unit can be damaged by excessive heat and friction caused by improper lubrication. If these parts are worn or broken, they’ll need to be replaced.
Oil Consumption
High oil consumption can be caused by a number of factors, including worn out engine components like piston rings, valve guides, and cylinder walls. It could also be a symptom of something as simple as a dirty air filter system, or an improperly vented crankcase.
For expert diagnosis of your diesel engine in Winnipeg, visit Western Turbo. In addition to maintenance and repair of turbo systems, we provide new equipment for the leading brands in the business – Holset, BorgWarner, and Garrett.
Western Turbo is located at 325 Eagle Drive in Winnipeg.