How Do I Determine If I Need to Rebuild My Turbo?

Written by Bill Heath

Volume 2 Issue 3 - 6.2/6.5 Issues and Answers

I have a 1986 K30 regular cab. It has a 6.2L diesel. Mileage is about 110,000. I have purchased a used Banks turbo kit that was designed for the 6.2. My question is how to determine if the turbo needs rebuilt prior to installation in my truck. Is there a maximum amount of play in the shaft that I can measure? I.e. max amount the end of the shaft should moved when pushed in a radial direction, as pushing towards the circumference of the opening? How about max amount of play pushing the shaft in or pulling it out along the shafts axis? I have tried taking it in to local shops which rebuild turbos and also calling Banks but have not found any definitive answers. Thanks, Mark W.

The simplest way to determine an issue with the turbo is by