If the turbocharger fails during engine operation, damage to the turbocharger compressor wheel and/or to the engine may occur. Damage to the turbocharger compressor wheel could allow parts from the compressor wheel to enter an engine cylinder. This can cause additional damage to the pistons, the valves, and the cylinder head.
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Turbocharger bearing failures can cause large quantities of oil to enter the air inlet and exhaust systems. Loss of engine lubricant can result in serious engine damage. Minor leakage of a turbocharger housing under extended low idle operation should not cause problems as long as a turbocharger bearing failure has not occurred. When a turbocharger bearing failure is accompanied by a significant engine performance loss (exhaust smoke or engine rpm up at no load), do not continue engine operation until the turbocharger is repaired or replaced. |
An inspection of the turbocharger can minimize unscheduled downtime. Also, the chance for potential damage to other engine parts is reduced.
Note: Turbocharger components require clearances that are precise. The turbocharger cartridge must be balanced due to high rpm.
The following conditions can cause the turbocharger to be out-of-balance:
- The buildup of deposits
- Chipping and/or flaking of deposits
If the turbocharger must be removed for inspection, use caution. Do not remove deposits from the turbine wheel. Do not attempt to clean the turbine wheel. For service information, refer to Disassembly and Assembly and Specifications. For options regarding repair and replacement, consult your Caterpillar dealer.
- Remove the exhaust outlet piping and remove the air inlet piping from the turbocharger. Visually inspect the piping for the presence of oil.
- Turn the compressor wheel and the turbine wheel by hand. The assembly must turn freely. Inspect the compressor wheel and the turbine wheel for contact with the turbocharger housing.
There must not be any visible signs of contact between the turbine wheel or compressor wheel and the turbocharger housing. If there is any indication of contact, recondition the turbocharger.
- Check the compressor wheel for cleanliness.
Look for evidence of dirt and/or moisture that is passing through the air filtering system. If oil is found, there is a possibility of a failed turbocharger oil seal.
The presence of oil may be the result of extended engine operation at low idle. The presence of oil may also result from restriction of the inlet air that causes the seals to leak.
Note: Deposits of ash and silicone can accumulate on the turbine wheel. Turbine wheel will become unbalanced when the deposits flake off. The turbocharger cartridge must be replaced when this occurs. However, remove deposits from the housing. This will prevent wear on the blades of the new turbine wheel.
- Inspect the turbine wheel and the nozzle for deposits of ash and silicone.
If deposits of
1.6 mm (0.06 inch) thickness are found or if the turbine is in contact with the housing, the turbocharger must be serviced by the OEM of the turbocharger. For options regarding repair and replacement, consult your Caterpillar dealer. - Inspect the bore of the turbine housing for corrosion and deposits.
- Clean the turbocharger compressor housing with standard shop solvents and a soft bristle brush.
- Assemble the components. Attach the air inlet piping and the exhaust outlet piping.