A turbocharger is a critical component in a diesel engine, but several factors can cause it to fail prematurely. Understanding these issues can help prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your turbo.
One of the biggest threats to a turbo is poor lubrication.
The turbo relies on a steady supply of clean oil to keep its bearings cool and reduce friction. If the oil level is low, dirty, or contaminated, the turbo can suffer severe damage. So, if its supply is restricted, even momentarily, it can cause catastrophic damage to the bearing systems, destroying a turbo within a matter of seconds, and in severe cases, the engine.
Oil starvation – blue discoloration on shaft
Foreign objects entering the turbo can destroy it quickly.
Today’s modern turbos spin at speeds over 300,000 rpm and endure temperatures close to 1,000°C. In these conditions, even the smallest of particles sucked into the turbine, compressor or bearing housing can result in immediate turbo failure. Worse still, these same fragments can be carried into the combustion chamber, causing irreversible damage to the engine too.
Foreign Object Impact (FOI) – The impeller was severely damaged
Running the turbo at excessive speeds is another common killer.
Turbochargers can operate at speeds in excess of 6,000 revs per second (360,000 rpm), with exhaust gases around 800°C. Each turbo is designed and manufactured to rotate at the correct speed for its application. Over speeding is when the turbo rotates at a greater speed than its operational limits. Over speeding can push the turbo beyond its safe operating parameters, causing it to fail by damaging the turbine or compressor wheels and bearings. If the turbo continues to over speed, it can over boost the engine, resulting in serious damage to the internal components and potentially complete engine failure.
Carbon build-up is a silent turbo killer.
The main culprit of carbon deposits is driving style, stop-start driving, extended engine idling and a frugal driving style can all prevent the engine from reaching its optimal operating temperature resulting in hydrocarbons being produced and existing carbon deposits not being burnt off. As the engine burns fuel, the layers of carbon build up causing the valves to stick. This can impede the valves sealing when disposing of exhaust or intaking air into the cylinder. Carbon can also plug up your fuel injector nozzles resulting in poor fuel delivery.
Carbon deposits
To keep your turbocharger healthy, please follow a strict maintenance routine.
Use high-quality synthetic oil, replace filters on schedule, and allow the engine to idle briefly before shutting it down after hard driving. Fixing boost leaks, exhaust blockages, and unusual noises early can prevent major damage.
By recognizing these common turbo killers and taking preventive measures, you can ensure your diesel engine’s turbocharger delivers reliable performance for years to come. If you notice symptoms like excessive smoke, power loss, or strange noises, address them immediately to avoid further damage.
For further support and advice, call SHOUYUAN’s turbo technical hotline on +86 021 31789927, or for more on its range of OE-quality, competitively priced remanufactured turbochargers and accessories, visit www.syuancn.com
Post time: May-06-2025