Below we have highlighted the causes and the signs of oil starvation, to help you identify and prevent oil starvation from reoccurring when carrying out a repair. If the original cause of failure is not identified it is likely the same type of failure will occur on the remanufactured turbo.

A lack of lubrication can result in catastrophic damage to the bearing systems which can occur within seconds of the turbocharger commencing operation. Quite simply:

• If oil levels are too low, the turbocharger will fail;
• If the wrong grade of oil is used, the turbocharger will fail;
• If oil becomes contaminated, the turbocharger will fail.

Signs Of Lack Of Lubrication / Oil Starvation:

• Material transfer (caused by high temperature due to friction from bearings) to other thrust parts and the journal bearing diameter of the shaft and wheel;
• Discolouration to the thrust parts and the journal bearing diameter of the shaft and wheel;
• Excessive wear to the thrust pads of the thrust bearing;
• Excessive wear to the journal bearings.

Causes Of Lack Of Lubrication / Oil Starvation:

• Poor oil filter maintenance;
• Insufficient oil in the sump;
• Incorrect oil inlet gasket used leading to restriction in oil supply;
• Build-up (coking) / carbon deposits in the oil feed pipe;
• Applying silicone to the oil inlet gasket causing blockages;
• Sludge or coke build up in bearing housing from hot shutdowns;
• A damaged, blocked or low quality oil filter;
• Failure to prime the turbo with oil before initial run;
• Engine left idle for long periods, especially during cold weather;
• Oil feed pipes containing bends or kinks;
• Engine wear.

Preventing Turbo Failure Caused By Lack Of Lubrication / Oil Starvation:

• Oil supply to the turbo is critical, always check oil pressures are correct;
• Avoid using silicone on oil gaskets as they can easily become detached and block oil passages;
• Clean or replace oil inlet pipes to remove carbon deposits or sludge that could restrict oil flow to the bearing systems;
• Use fresh oil and new oil filters (which have been recommended by the engine manufacturer) when fitting a replacement turbocharger.