External visual cues of turbo integrity

[nctexan]

Are there any? Without actually running a turbocharger are there ways of visual inspection (without turbo disassembly) to ensure sound operation?

 

[IJ.]

Measure axial and lateral float in the bearings/shaft, check the general condition of the fins on both the compressor and turbine wheels is about it.

If either wheel can contact the housings steer clear of it.

 

[nctexan]

Thanks for that info. I almost have my stock twins off of the manifolds. It is taking forever. I plan on taking measurements once everything is off but I could tell that the piping going into the front turbos compressor had a bit of oil residue, while that on the rear turbo was all clean. I'm guessing it has much to do with that tubing that comes off of the valve cover and ports right into the front turbos intake piping.

 

[IJ.]

Yes usually as motors get on in age they suffer from blowby and pollute the intake tract.