Calling any turbo rebuild guru...

[Oro_O]

I'm not fully rebuilding this turbo, just cleaning it up before re-installing it on a different car. I am not taking the cartridge apart.

I notice the oil journal has some crusty bits inside. I was wondering what solvent would be safe to use to clean it out before re-isntalling. I know of many I could use, but wonder if there are any delicate seals in there. From diagrams and cut-aways I look at, it seems the bearings are pressed on both side and solidly sealed (else I'd be seeing oil on either wheel. There isn't; it's nice and tight and no oil leaks. It is a Mitsubishi TD04HL-16T from an older Volvo T5 engine.

 

[wwillson]

I'm curious how many miles, what oil, and what oil change interval. There appears to be quite a bit of carbon deposits in the oil passage.

 

[PoorMans180SX]

There are no delicate seals in there, just bearings and piston ring style seals on the turbine. Clean away if that's what you're into. Just be sure to prime it with some fresh oil before you fire the engine back up.

 

[Oro_O]

I'm curious how many miles, what oil, and what oil change interval. There appears to be quite a bit of carbon deposits in the oil passage.

I really don't know. Personally, I use a robust 10w-30 FS and ester oil additive in the turbos. That cavity is not oil-filled at all times, it leaks down (via that orifice) to the pan so residual oil could sit and cook regardless of what you run. The turbines are good, no play, so I'm not worried going forward though.

There are no delicate seals in there, just bearings and piston ring style seals on the turbine. Clean away if that's what you're into. Just be sure to prime it with some fresh oil before you fire the engine back up.

Great; thanks. That is what it appeared to me from looking at some cut-aways, rebuild kits, etc. Not my first auto rodeo by a long shot, but the first turbo I've tried removing/swapping/upgrading and chipping. I won't be getting time to install this for a week at least so I wanted to just be as thorough as I could on cleaning, etc. since I have time. Appreciate the help.

 

[antonmnster]

If it were me I’d replace the cartridge bits. Just mark and maintain the wheels to not lose balance.

 

[Oro_O]

A Volvo guru sold it to me, said it was solid and not to mess with it. I believe him and then the in-hand results support that. I DO see your point, but the risk vs. reward doesn't support ignoring the seller's known expertise and in-hand test of axial and rotational play. Not worth breaking it apart.