cleaning turbos

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Aug 19, 2006 | 09:40 PM

#16

mrxlh

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Joined: Apr 2004

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From: Bossier City, LA

I have been hesitant to enter this discussion, however I test the techs here enough to back them on this. Turbines of a similar configuration as what is used on our trucks get cleaned when an overhaul is done. The rotating assembly only gets sent to the shop if it has damaged blades or buckets on it. The rest get WD 40 and scotchbrite polishing and get put right back in. This has been an accepted method since the late 50's as far as power turbines are concerned. Vloney, what does Ford recomend you clean them with?

Ryan

Aug 19, 2006 | 09:49 PM

#17

mrxlh

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From: Bossier City, LA

Quote:

Originally Posted by LVEILLON

Vloney...Is there any product that you have ever used to "Fog" a turbo? We use an a fog on our heli's every night to keep the corrosion levels down to a minimum. Just wondering if this might be a preventative from the beginning. It doesn't contain any solvents that would break loose any corrosion that is present, but it prevents build up. I know they use the fog on some of our apu's that are left on the platforms(oil rigs).

Unlike aircraft and solar (which are more like aircraft than industrial) power turbines, industrial turbines do not get water or detergent washed. Ie. GE frame 3, 5, 7, Worthington Steam and Gas expanders ect. They never get shut down til maintenance is due, and are a lot heavier built. These types of turbines ar never subjected to "hot starts" which is what causes most of the buildup. Ruston (sorry moderators, Ruston is a cuss word) and even Allison (which is the same as in a military aircraft minus the afterburner) power turbines do not get washed. If Garrett was to spend the money on materials like industrials are it would probalby make the turbo cost $6000 rather than $2300.

Ryan

Aug 20, 2006 | 11:17 AM

#18

vloney

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From: waynesville, mo.

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrxlh

we are instructed to use carb cleaner, razor blade w/holder,and a cut down rotary scotchbrite pad(1"). Be careful to not damage the pivot pins for the vanes.

Aug 20, 2006 | 05:05 PM

#19

350DRW

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Joined: May 2006

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From: Mississippi

Vloney, (or anyone else that has performed this job) If`n you do not have a rotary drive, can you "handclean" these parts with a scotchbrite pad? I know it might be a bugger, but this info will tell me if I need to go get an extra tool.

Aug 20, 2006 | 05:33 PM

#20

npccpartsman

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Joined: Dec 2003

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From: Stuttgart, Ar

Yes--you can hand clean the parts. it's just to get the rust/corrosion/coke off the moving parts. Just don't spray cleaner into the turbo bearing area--you will mess them up.