Turbocharger Identification:

Turbochargers are rapidly becoming commonplace on both gasoline and diesel-powered cars and light trucks. Turbochargers live in an extreme environment, unlike any other engine component. While today’s OEM turbochargers are highly dependable, off-brand rebuilt units and off-shore will-fits frequently bypass quality standards that can shorten their in-service life. We are dedicated to ensuring high-quality replacement assemblies from the world’s most reputable OEM turbo manufacturers.

It is important to understand that using the vehicle application guide to select the correct OEM replacement turbo is only accurate approximately 80% of the time. OEM turbochargers constantly evolve for improvements in both durability and performance and can change in mid-year production. The best way to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date replacement turbo is to use the part number cross-reference. Identify the turbo part number of the unit you are replacing and use the correct application section and cross-reference to verify the proper replacement turbocharger. If your current supplier does not use the correct OEM replacement number you have no way of knowing if you are using the most up-to-date replacement unit. Automotive turbos are frequently not available as remanufactured due to the extreme temperatures and high rotational speeds seen in operation. However, in a few applications, remanufactured turbochargers are safely available. If your application has a reliable remanufactured unit available, it will be shown in the table.

As stated previously, the turbocharger part number is the most accurate way to verify the correct replacement for the vehicle you are servicing. The part number you need is most often found on the turbocharger “Nameplate". The turbocharger nameplate is an industry standard that is used by OEMs and Automotive Suppliers worldwide to identify the correct turbocharger used on a vehicle. The nameplate design will vary according to whether it relates to an original equipment turbo that was installed by the vehicle manufacturer or a turbo bought through the independent aftermarket. Regardless of its orgin, most nameplates show a Customer or OEM turbocharger part number, turbo model, and serial number.

Keep in mind:

• Nameplate locations may vary. However, they are most often found on the compressor housing or bearing housing of the turbocharger.
• Nameplate designs may vary according to manufacturer, geographic region, assembly plants and/or local requirements.
• Details may be engraved directly onto the nameplate pad, or onto a separate nameplate, which is then bonded on top of the original factory nameplate.
• Some aftermarket nameplates may not include a logo or brand name of the manufacturer.
• BorgWarner: you may see BorgWarner, KKK, 3k, or Schwitzer on older turbos and nameplates.
• Garrett: you may see Garrett, Garrett AiResearch, AlliedSignal, Garrett Engine Boosting Systems, or Honeywell logos on older turbos and nameplates
• Holset: you may see Cummins or Holset on turbos and nameplates.
• IHI: you may see IHI or Clover on older turbos and nameplates.

Installation Tip:

New replacement turbochargers are built dry for quality control to double-check the “rotor tilt". Before reconnecting the oil line on a turbocharger, be sure to pour a small amount of clean, fresh oil into the inlet while simultaneously spinning the compressor wheel by hand, and PRIOR TO STARTING THE ENGINE! You will feel the oil clearances tighten up to a normal level.