Detroit Diesel — STEP 2. LOOK (engine stopped)

Testing & diagnosis · Turbocharger

From a Detroit Diesel service manual — check it applies to your exact model before use.

Procedure

1. Look at the wheels. Remove the exhaust pipe from the turbine outlet and the air intake pipe from the compressor outlet.
2. Use a flashlight and check for rub marks on wheels or housings.
3. Look for signs of blade damage from foreign objects.
4. Check compressor wheel for build-up of dirt.
5. Check turbine wheel for heavy deposits of coke or carbon.
6. Check for missing blades.
7. If you see heavy accumulation of oil, locate the source.
8. Oil in the compressor inlet is not coming from the turbocharger. Check the vehicle air compressor.
9. If you see oil in the turbine, check the exhaust manifold. Oil here indicates an engine fault, not a turbocharger condition.

Source: Detroit Diesel service manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.

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