Preventative Turbo repair/replacement?

MIKEJSMITH1985

MEMBER
2013 FORD EXPLORER
3.5L
6 CYL
TURBO
4WD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

I have the vehicle listed above Sport. I had a misfire issue as a result of a loose timing chain. I had that repaired about 6 months ago and as a result of the timing/misfire issue excessive fuel lead to the demise of one of my catalytic converters (rear). Upon inspection I have oil built up on the heat shield under the turbo, on the center section of the turbo and all over the lower half of the wastegate. There is no shaft play in/out or side/side and the turbine spins freely. I have trace amounts of oil in the charge pipes, but the inside of the compressor housing is clean.

Being this far into the job I can’t decide if it’s the right time to replace/rebuild the turbos as I had no performance problems and no visual or physical problems upon inspection other than the oil on the outside of the turbo. Any suggestions?

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2 Replies

MIKEJSMITH1985

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Here is a picture that shows the oil on the bottom of the compressor housing and center section.

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Saturday, May 27th, 2023 AT 4:20 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,896 POSTS

Hi,

Keep in mind, if it is running properly, you may want to leave it alone. It doesn't appear to be that much oil visible.

You may want to clean everything and drive it for a while to confirm that is where the leak is originating. I learned a long time ago, if it isn't broken, don't fix it, and that leak doesn't appear very bad.

Let me know.

Joe