DJs02a4

My coolant is just disappearing, my mechanic called and said the turbo seals are bad and thats where it is going. I found this turbo it looks like a direct fit, would it be cheaper to replace the turbo, or just the seals? I'd have to pay someone to do it as I am not that good with automotive stuff.

lyleswk

Well I would be suspicious on 2 counts.

1) $184 for a turbo? I would go elsewhere. That's sort of like bying a "new" $25,000 Ferrari.

2) I am about 95% sure seals in turbos are for oil, not coolant...but I will gladly take correction on that one as I have not studied the turbo installation that closely. Coolant lose you describe is usually a head.

DJs02a4

I found this turbo, although it says its a stock replacement, does it add more HP?

DJs02a4

I found this one as well. What do you think?

lyleswk

Assuming you plan on keeping the car for a while, this is more what I am talking about; I would look at Garrett or KKK only.

http://gpopshop.com/garrett-journal-bearing-turbos/

This web site also has rebuild kits.

My 2 cents...

DJs02a4

Right now I can only afford upto $500, will the one for $399 atleast hold me for 6months to a year? Then next summer I'll be able to get a better turbo. Those garret turbos, what turbine housing and wheel would I want? Sorry this is my first turboed car.

Gingerbread man

Lyle is right. Turbo is a pretty stressed component. Don't use a dodgy one. Ebay $200 turbos can fail in a couple thousand miles.

G-Pop Shop has a rebuilt Garrett for $450.

lyleswk

They also have rebuild kits for even cheaper if you know someone that can rebuild a turbo. I have heard that some semi truck shop's have the tools and skills to rebuild them, although I have never had a turbo fail (knock on wood). Wouldn't trust anyone else. Btw, I have a total of over 500K on my 3 turbo cars.