What is foreign contaminant / object damage?
A foreign contaminant or object refers to anything that enters the turbocharger through the air or exhaust inlet. When this happens, the turbocharger's performance can be significantly impacted. Understanding the causes of this damage, recognizing the warning signs, and knowing how to prevent it are crucial for maintaining optimal performance.
What causes foreign contaminant damage?
Small particles entering through damaged hoses connected to the turbocharger.
Objects drawn into the air intake due to a damaged, faulty, low-quality, or missing air filter.
Debris from a previous turbocharger failure remaining in the system and damaging the new unit.
Broken engine components, such as valves, fragments of damaged pistons, or injector tips.
Items accidentally left in the intake pipe during servicing, such as bolts, nuts, washers, rags, or other objects.
Particles in the exhaust gases, such as carbon deposits from poor combustion.
Ice formation within the intake system during low-temperature conditions.
Signs of foreign contaminant damage:
Unusual noises from the turbo during operation, including grinding, rattling, or high-pitched sounds.
Reduced engine performance and power output.
Visible damage to the compressor blades along their leading edge.
Visible damage to the turbine wheel up the sides of the blades.
Pitting observed around the compressor inlet.
Pitting found on the vanes of the nozzle ring assembly.
How to prevent foreign contaminant damage:
Regularly inspect air hoses for blockages, damage, cracks, or leaks, and ensure they remain clear.
Remove any loose objects or debris that may accumulate during servicing.
Verify the integrity of air hoses, ensuring they are intact and securely connected to prevent foreign objects from entering the turbocharger.
Use the correct air filter specified for your vehicle model and replace it regularly as per the manufacturer's recommendations.
Clean the intake and exhaust systems thoroughly after a turbocharger failure to remove any debris or fragments that could damage the new turbocharger.
Install new gaskets to ensure a proper seal and prevent gasket failure.
Never operate the vehicle without the air intake connected to the turbocharger to avoid the risk of foreign objects being drawn in.
Note:
If you suspect your turbo is in any way damaged from foreign objects, please avoid further driving. This type of physical damage will create an imbalance in the turbo and often leads to snapping the turbine shaft and can create further damage to your engine.
