Turbo Basics

Turbos provide enhanced fuel economy and performance. A turbo is a basic "air pump" that pushes a volume of air into the engine, which increases the power output. This turbo "air pump" is driven by a fan located in the exhaust by a direct shaft. The more exhaust that flows, the more air is pumped into the engine. In most automotive and some other applications, a wastegate is provided which opens as pressure is increased by the "air pump". This device prevents an overboost from damaging the engine.

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TURBO BASICS &TIPS

As air is pumped and compressed into the engine by the turbo, it rises in temperature. To reduce this problem and make the turbo more efficient, vehicle manufacturers have been adding intercoolers. An intercooler is a radiator for air and is usually located in front of, or behind the main radiator itself. To add to the life of the turbo unit, some turbos are also water-cooled by coolant system connections. This feature limits the operating temperature of the turbo to the temperature of the cooling system, thus, protecting the bearing assemble from excessive exhaust temperature.

Turbo units may obtain speeds up to 100,000 RPMs, depending on the application, so it is extremely important that a sufficient supply of clean oil always be entering the turbo while the engine is running. If for any reason, the oil supply is interrupted or becomes contaminated, "good-bye turbo"$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

Turbo failures are mostly caused by lack of lubrication or abrasive material in the oil. Other failures occur when heavy particles enter the air stream on the suction side. Therefore, a clean air filter and ducting is necessary. Another type of failure may be caused by objects from within the engine leaving via the exhaust. This could be hard carbon, broken engine parts, manifold rust, etc. To prevent most failures, may we offer the following suggestions:

Change the oil at least every 5,000 klms, or more frequently if you
wish. Always change oil filter as well!

Always use the oil that is recommended by the engine manufacturer.
We use & recommend Castrol GTX3, SFX or TXT

Always let the engine warm up when starting. 30-60 seconds in
warmer weather and longer as the temperature drops.

COLD, THICK OIL DOES NOT FLOW AS FREELY AS WARM OIL!

Do not rev engine during warm up time, the turbo may not yet have
received a full supply of oil.

Always let the engine idle for a period when stopping. The faster you
have driven, the longer you should let it idle down.

We fit and reccomend Turbo timers these keep the engine running for a period after the key is turned of, this allows the turbo charger to cool and can help prevent oil "coking" inside the turbo, which in time can cause major turbo damage by restricting the oil supply to the bearings.

By following these suggestion, and practicing good driving habits, you should extend the life of your turbo and promote trouble free motoring.