Detroit Diesel — Turbo Brake Disassembly Procedure
Repair & overhaul · Turbo brake assembly / turbocharger
From a Detroit Diesel service manual — check it applies to your exact model before use.
Before you start
- Do NOT hit the side of the Matrix. A rocking motion can cause damage to the Matrix or the turbine blades.
- If the Matrix will not turn by hand after penetrating oil has been applied, use a non marring strap wrench near the base to provide extra leverage.
Procedure
- Remove the clevis pin from the ball socket on the sliding sleeve actuator and discard.
- Using a large screw driver or pry bar, disconnect the sliding sleeve actuator ball socket from the sliding sleeve lever.
- Inspect the sliding sleeve actuator for damage or binding and try to move the sliding sleeve lever.
- Remove the two bolts (1) and v-band clamp (3) from the exhaust bypass pipe (2); discard the two bolts, but save pipe and clamp.
- Remove the four (4) nuts holding the brake assembly to the housing and discard.
- Separate the assembly from the turbocharger housing. Set the turbocharger horizontally on a sturdy table. Protect the speed sensor and wiring from damage.
- Using a brass hammer, tap the turbocharger housing equally on two sides until a small gap is generated; do NOT hit the exhaust pipe connecting flange.
- Use a large screwdriver or pry bar to apply even leverage 180° apart to separate the brake from the turbocharger housing; keep the brake assembly as straight as possible.
- Use an emery cloth to clean the edge of the turbocharger housing just above the Matrix lip. Do NOT use a die grinder or a powered sander.
- Apply a small amount of penetrating oil just above the Matrix lip around the entire radius and allow it to set for a few minutes.
- Grab the Matrix with two hands and rotate it back and forth while pulling straight up; lightly tap the TOP with a rubber mallet to re-seat it if it binds.
- Use a non marring strap wrench near the base for extra leverage if the Matrix will not turn by hand. Do NOT hit the side of the Matrix.
- Inspect the turbine blades for wear, cracks, chips, or evidence of foreign material entering the turbocharger.
- Inspect the inside of the housing for single or multiple cracks. The housing can ONLY be reused if the cracks do not intersect.
- Use an emery cloth and clean all mating surfaces between the housing and the new brake assembly.
Tools required
- Large screw driver or pry bar Amazon
- Brass hammer Amazon
- Emery cloth Amazon
- Penetrating oil Amazon
- Non marring strap wrench Amazon
- Rubber mallet Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
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.