What is a foreign object and what causes it?

A foreign object is simply any object that enters the turbocharger through the air inlet or exhaust inlet. When a foreign object enters the turbocharger, its performance will be affected very quickly.

Signs Of Foreign Object Damage:

• Noise from the turbo during operation;
• Loss of performance;
• Chipping of compressor or turbine blades;
• Pitting around the compressor inlet;
• Pitting on the compressor blades.

Causes Of Foreign Object Damage:

• Small particles entering through damaged hoses;
• If the air filter is damaged (or faulty), of a low quality or missing, objects will be sucked into the air intake;
• Debris from a previous turbocharger failure;
• Broken engine components, e.g. valves or fragments of damaged piston, injector tips;
• Bolts, nuts, washers, rags or other items left in the intake pipe during servicing.

Preventing Turbo Failure Caused By A Foreign Object:

• Make sure air hoses are clear from blockages and other loose objects;
• Check that air hoses are intact and in good working condition;
• Ensure the air filter is the correct one for the vehicle;
• Ensure no debris or engine fragments remain from the previous turbo failure;
• Using new gaskets helps to prevent the possibility of gasket break up and also ensure a perfect seal.

Please note: Never continue to operate a turbocharger with damaged blades as the rotor balance will be affected and this could impact its service life.