I just installed my Engine and hooked up the T78 and drove it for the first time today. I reached about 6lbs-8lbs of boost and I heard a large pop from my engine bay. Pulled it over to see that the turbo blew the Elbow off of it. Now the turbo is smoking very bad and oil is leaking from the front turbine. The car still idles perfect and drives ok.

I'm curious to what might have caused this. Hopefully I don't have to overhaul the turbo. The turbo still spins freely. I'm curious to if this is my Wastegate or BOV that cause the problem.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

doubt it was wg or bov issue when only running 6-8psi.

If you grab the compressor wheel by the front nut can you move it side to side enough to touch the housing? Also check to see if you can you move it in and out???

It sounds like the thrust bearing went out causing the compressor wheel to smack the compressor housing. If thats the case then yes...its rebuilt time. One of the causes of this could be it not being balanced correctly or maybe someone just didnt seat the compressor housing flush.

STEPHEN

 

are you boosting a new engine without breaking it in?

 

That sucks Ken. Goodluck.

 

If I had to guess I'd say the hose wasn't on very well and you have too much oil pressure to the turbo or not a big enough return line from the turbo.

 

The engine already had 5k miles on it, and it runs great. So yes I was boosting to the engine, but its already been broken in. The bearing in the turbo must have gotten metal flakes in it, because I took it apart and the housing is scored slightly.

Curious to if anyone knows any companies that can rebuild T78s.

 

another question. Anyone ever setup a secondary oil filter just for the turbo? I was thinking of spliting the feed line and adding a secondary small oil filter. Just a thought. Is this a good idea?

 

I think BNR can rebuild a T78. (205) 640-1193

 

Majestic Turbo in Waco, TX can rebuild them and even upgrade them with in their words, better compressor wheels. Jason uses one of these modified T78's as did I for a while before switching to a GT4082.
Michel

 

I went to majestic turbo and they are going to have it to me on saturday. Fast service, best value....I highly recommend them.

 

another enthusiastic vote for Majestic. talk to Kevin Draper

howard coleman