FAQ

How do I identify my turbocharger or turbocharger installation kit?

It is vital when selecting a replacement Cateran turbocharger that the OE P/N on the failed unit is used as the reference in order to ensure that the correct Cateran turbocharger is fitted! This is because many vehicles manufacturers use multiple suppliers of turbochargers, which are not transferable, meaning that a vehicle’s make, model and year is not enough to correctly identify which replacement Cateran turbocharger is required. 

Do diesel turbochargers work any differently to petrol turbochargers?

Yes, they do! With a diesel engine, an increased volume of fuel (running ‘richer’) increases power and engine operating temperatures. Consequently, the Turbocharger is not the key to power production in a diesel engine (unlike in a petrol engine). Maximum fuel volume delivery is the key to a diesel engine’s power output. The correct operation of the turbocharger on a diesel engine is to ensure that the specified ratio of fuel and air is maintained, in order to prevent excessive engine combustion chamber temperatures, leading to engine overheating and possible damage.

What are the most common signs of a failing diesel turbocharger?

1) A high-pitched whistle from the engine compartment. This is caused by the turbocharger’s internal components starting to operate in an out-of-balance condition.

2) Blue smoke (not white or black) emitting from the exhaust pipe, particularly, but not restricted to, under acceleration. This is caused by oil burning in the exhaust system, which is indicative of leaking internal turbocharger seals. However, this is not the only possible cause of this symptom. Failing internal engine components, such as piston rings, can have exactly the same symptoms. The engine should undergo a complete mechanical assessment, before ever replacing a turbocharger.

3) Engine overheating. A failing turbocharger will usually provide less air to the engine. This has the effect of causing the engine to run ‘richer’ and thus hotter, as described above.

What are the most common causes of diesel turbocharger failure?

1) Small particles of dust entering the compressor of the turbocharger due to poor air filter service and/or design.

2) Small particles of carbon in the engine oil due to poor engine oil/filter service.

3)  Excessive engine crankcase pressure due to failing piston rings and/or engine breather capacity.

4) Non-Original Manufacturer calibration of the engine’s fuel system, either by the use of an external ‘chip’ or by re-calibration of the engine original computer in an attempt to increase engine power. The resultant increase in engine/exhaust gas temperature causes a significant increase in thermal load on the turbocharger and thus increases the likelihood of component failure.

5) Restrictive snorkel. Many snorkels, both Aftermarket and OEM, have insufficient airflow capacity for a turbocharged diesel. Over time, this has the effect of causing the turbocharger to work harder than it would otherwise have to, thus leading to premature failure.

6) Normal wear and tear. Turbochargers don’t usually last as long as the diesel engine to which they’re installed. Although turbocharger life is greatly affected by answers 1) and 2) above, even a perfectly maintained turbocharger on a diesel engine will typically only live approximately one third the life of the engine itself. As a general indication, 200,000KMs or eight years would be longest life one could expect, if kept perfectly maintained in a perfect environment.

How do I install the turbocharger?

Read our installation manual carefully for hassle-free installation and quality operation of your new replacement diesel turbocharger

Still have questions?

Get in contact with us. E: sales@cateran.com.au