So I am replacing the turbo on my Volvo 850 t-5. The car is from California and has California emissions. The turbo doesn't seem to be working correctly anymore and oil is present all over it. I believe the turbo is dumping oil into the exhaust, as I had to replace the catalytic converter due to blockage. I had to buy a special California emissions converter to bolt to the turbo as the fed emissons flange wasn't compatible. Now that I am looking to replace the turbo, am I going to have to find a California emissions turbo? is there such a thing? will any turbo be compatible.. has anyone run into a situation like this? really looking for any insight...

 

How? Broken shaft? Not making boost? Check CBV? Check actuator rod?


Oil present is normal for any Turbo 850.

 

did you consider a turbo rebuild kit? You may want to use the VIN to match up to the OEM part number for the turbo (some of the dealer sites have web pages to help) -curious if your car is a '97 - the downpipe fit issue may be related to the model year (end of run may be compatible with the next gen V70s) versus California emissions. Plan B would be to find a used turbo from a California yard. Can you read the part # plate on the turbo?

 

Yes my car is a 1997 850 t-5 B5234T engine. Its seems like the boost doesnt have much power. If that makes sense. There is oil or some black buildup being dumped into the exhaust and ive read that that is due to leaking seals on the turbo. Ive considered the rebuild kit.. But ive read you had to get it balanced afterwards at a shop. at that point i feel like id be better off to buy a stock aftermarket replacement or upgrade. There is a considerable amount of gunk on top of the turbo housing. Havent removed yet for more inspection. Could there be any other reason there is oil present and an explanation for the black buildup in the exhaust?

 

That is interesting on the model year compatibility. I didnt know the downpipe interchanged with the v70. Will research that more... Also the car has an estimated 200,000 miles (odometer stopped rolling at 180k) But i don't believe the turbo has been serviced ever. What are the lifetime expectancy on them?

 

Did you know that if your PCV system is not up to par you can develope crank case pressure that will cause oil to be pushed passed the seals on the turbo and give you the same symptoms?

It you have not first replaced your PCV system I would start there. Then replace the oil in your engine with a thicker weight. If the PCV was the cause, that should do it.

If not, pick up a turbo rebuild kit and rebuild that turbo...its simple.

Any questions you have about California smog, please ask. I live in California and have been to the BAR for smog issues. I have the scoop.

 

I Have ordered myself the rebuild kit for the PCV system. I intend to do it once final parts arrive. Is rebuilding the turbo a difficult task. I see the rebuild kits are much cost wise. Does it needed to be taken in to a shop afterwards, are there any posts on how to rebuild one?

 

 

Just make sure you mark where the compressor wheel sits in alignment with the shaft and you are good to go.