Technical Support

01.

Turbochargers

At Main Turbo Systems, every turbocharger undergoes a meticulous teardown and comprehensive inspection process, ensuring each component is thoroughly assessed for quality and performance. Our overhauls and exchanges adhere strictly to manufacturer specifications.

Every unit is assembled with precision by our highly skilled and experienced team, ensuring the highest standards of craftsmanship. Once assembled, each turbocharger is rigorously tested on our state-of-the-art VSR turbocharger test machine, confirming optimal performance and efficiency before it leaves our facility.

We balance our turbochargers using a custom Vibration Sorting Rig, or “VSR” to ensure quality and certify balance. Main Turbo Systems is currently the only shop in aviation worldwide capable of balancing turbochargers using a VSR and has expertly been providing this service for more than 20 years. Want to know more about this process? Give us a call today.

02.

Wastegates

A malfunctioning wastegate can lead to boost pressure issues, performance loss, and potential engine damage. Our overhaul process includes replacing the butterfly valve shaft, bushings, seals, and hardware to restore smooth operation and long-term reliability. If your aircraft is experiencing uneven turbo performance or overboosting, let us inspect and restore your wastegate to peak efficiency.

03.

Balancing

Unbalanced turbochargers cause vibration, reduced efficiency, and premature wear. As the only aviation shop worldwide capable of VSR turbocharger balancing, we eliminate imbalance-related issues by spinning rotors at high speeds to detect and correct even the smallest deviations. If you’re noticing excessive vibration or performance inconsistencies, balancing may be the key to restoring smooth operation.

04.

Zyglo

Cracks in turbo components can lead to system failure, reduced efficiency, and safety risks. Our Zyglo fluorescent penetrant inspection detects even the smallest fractures in turbine housings, compressor wheels, and other critical parts, ensuring structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. If you suspect material fatigue or unseen defects, a Zyglo inspection provides the clarity and confidence you need.

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

View answers to our most frequently asked questions.

POSSIBLE CAUSES AND REMEDIES
Excessive pre-lube or turbocharger–(action) follow pre-lube instruction, vol. 1, section 2 of manual.
Restriction in engine crankcase breather–(action) refer to engine manufacturer maintenance publications.
Restriction or faulty check valve in turbocharger oil drain line–(action) remove restriction or replace damaged parts as needed.
Malfunction in oil scavenge pump or drain sump–(action) refer to engine manufacturer maintenance publications.
Worn or damaged turbine wheel–(action) clean and repair exhaust systems as needed, overhaul turbocharger.
Heavy sludge or coking in center housing–(action) overhaul turbocharger, service engine lube system.
Turbocharger shaft bearings, journals or bearing bores worn–(action) see troubleshooting chart for this condition.
Engine malfunction, piston blow by or high internal crankcase pressure–(action) refer to engine manufacturer maintenance publications.

POSSIBLE CAUSES AND REMEDIES
Air cleaner element clogged– (action) service per engine manufacturer maintenance publications.
Restriction or faulty check valve in turbocharger oil drain line–(action) remove restriction or replace damaged parts as needed.
Restriction in duct between air cleaner and turbocharger–(action) remove restriction or replace damaged parts as needed.
Malfunction in oil scavenge pump or drain sump–(action) refer to engine manufacturer maintenance publications.
Restriction in engine crankcase breather–(action) refer to engine manufacturer maintenance publications.
Turbocharger shaft bearings, journals or bearing bores worn–(action) see troubleshooting chart for this condition.
Engine malfunction, piston blow by or high internal crankcase pressure–(action) refer to engine manufacturer maintenance publications.

POSSIBLE CAUSES AND REMEDIES
Restriction in duct between air cleaner and engine intake manifold– (action) remove restriction or replace damaged parts as needed.
Restriction in engine exhaust system after turbocharger– (action) remove restriction or replace damaged parts as needed.
Restriction in engine intake or exhaust manifold– (action) refer to engine manufacturer maintenance publications.
Pressure relief valve opens at too low a pressure– (action) see troubleshooting chart for this condition.
Engine malfunction, ignition or fuel systems– (action) refer to engine manufacturer maintenance publications.
Turbocharger output low or operates sluggishly– (action) see troubleshooting chart for this condition.
Engine oil pressure low– (action) refer to engine manufacturer’s maintenance publications.
Controller or wastegate dirty and/or sticking– (action) clean or replace as necessary.

POSSIBLE CAUSES AND REMEDIES
Restriction in duct between air cleaner and engine intake manifold– (action) remove restriction or replace damaged parts as needed.
Restriction in engine exhaust system after turbocharger– (action) remove restriction or replace damaged parts as needed.
Restriction in engine intake or exhaust manifold– (action) refer to engine manufacturer maintenance publications.
Pressure relief valve opens at too low a pressure– (action) see troubleshooting chart for this condition.
Engine malfunction, ignition or fuel systems– (action) refer to engine manufacturer maintenance publications.
Turbocharger output low or operates sluggishly– (action) see troubleshooting chart for this condition.
Engine oil pressure low– (action) refer to engine manufacturer’s maintenance publications.
Controller or wastegate dirty and/or sticking– (action) clean or replace as necessary.

POSSIBLE CAUSES AND REMEDIES
Exhaust bypass valve fails to close, or operates sluggishly–(action) see troubleshooting chart for this condition.
Restriction in duct between compressor and engine intake manifold–(action) remove restriction or replace damaged parts as needed.
Restriction in duct between compressor and engine intake manifold–(action) remove restriction or replace damaged parts as needed.
Restriction in engine exhaust system after turbocharger–(action) remove restriction or replace damaged parts as needed.
Restriction in engine intake or exhaust manifold–(action) refer to engine manufacturer maintenance publications.
Heavy carbon buildup behind turbine wheel–(action) overhaul turbocharger as needed.
Heavy sludge or coking in center housing–(action) overhaul turbocharger as needed, service engine lube system.
Turbocharger shaft bearings, journals or bearing bores worn–(action) see troubleshooting chart for this condition.

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