2nd Generation Specific (1986-1992) 1986-1992 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections.

How can I tell if my wastegate actuator has gone bad?

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Old Oct 21, 2006 | 09:50 PM
  #1  
Mindspin311's Avatar
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From: Philly | PA
How can I tell if my wastegate actuator has gone bad?

A few days ago my BNR Stage 2 started boost creeping really badly, up to like 15psi, when it should be at about 5-6psi.

Is there a way I can check and see if the wastegate is opening like its supposed to?
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Old Oct 26, 2006 | 05:53 AM
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From: n
Put a dab of grease on the shaft by the actuator.
Go for a ride.
See if grease is messed up.


-Ted
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Old Oct 26, 2006 | 07:35 AM
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From: Winnipeg, Canada
just grab the shaft with your fingers, and push it the way it would go if it was opening.

but if you can open it yourself, that doesnt say its not broken. but if you cant open it, you might have found your problem. if its stuck, their might be something obstructing the flapper door. or the spring in the actuator might be obstructed or broken (unlikely the spring is broken, if the spring failed, your wastegate would be stuck open, and you would make no boost).

thats all i can think of. good luck
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Old Oct 26, 2006 | 07:51 AM
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From: Nago Okinawa
if it shows up in a spring break video with snoop dogg
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Old Oct 26, 2006 | 09:39 AM
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From: Orange Park FL (near Jax)
I test all pressure & vac devices with a Mity-Vac hand pump.
It has both a suction & pressure side.
I keep a test "kit" with it containing some hoses, tees, and a cheap boost gauge.

My first eye-opener moment came when I was holding the revs on my old NA at 5K in 3rd, and used the Mity-Vac to hand open the VDI.

Last edited by SureShot; Oct 26, 2006 at 09:44 AM.
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Old Oct 26, 2006 | 09:59 AM
  #6  
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From: San Antonio TX
I love the miti-vac, but I've used a basketball.

Really.

I take the signal tube off the wastegate nipple, and put on a length of test tubing. I put the other end of the test tubing over the large end of a b-ball inflation needle, and poke it in a b-ball.

A ball that dribbles properly has 8 - 10 psi, which is just about right for the test (the FSM states 10 psi).

Modern technology is simply amazing.
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Old Oct 30, 2006 | 12:09 PM
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Originally Posted by 87GTR
if it shows up in a spring break video with snoop dogg
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