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Fast Cars and Happy Lives

Hey! My name is Erica. I live for one thing and one thing only - driving my car. I have always loved cars so I was super excited when I passed my driving test last year. I decided that I needed to learn everything I could about the world of automobiles so I went down to my local auto club and made some friends. The guys there were really friendly and they took the time to talk about every aspect of owning, modifying, and maintaining a vehicle. I have learnt so much over the past few months, I just had to start a new blog. Enjoy!

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3 Central Tips for Keeping Your Turbocharger in Good Condition

by Roy West

Turbochargers can last as long as engines. Unfortunately, the long lifespan is often compromised by carelessness and poor practices. As a result, most people have to purchase replacement components for their vehicles. If you have a new turbocharged car or have just installed a new turbocharger, you must be committed to protecting the unit. Proper care will prevent the damage of this delicate element, minimising the risk of premature failure. Here are simple tips to help you promote better functionality.

1. Check Turbo Specs

It is important to confirm that your turbocharger matches your engine if you have installed a replacement unit. Simply speaking, if your new component is not compatible with your vehicle, it will fail prematurely. Moreover, it could affect the performance and lifespan of the engine components. In general, it is advisable to use a replacement turbocharger designed by the original vehicle manufacturer. If you choose an alternative, ensure that the material and structure is comparable to the original unit. Do not waste time and money on an unsuitable turbocharger.

2. Filter the Air

You should keep debris and particles out of your turbocharger. This component is highly vulnerable to external interference because it is a precision component. If an unusual factor is introduced into the system, the risk of damage will be high. Most pollutants in turbochargers come from the air system. The particles from the exhaust and the general air can flow into the unit and wreak havoc in the core mechanisms. For instance, if debris comes in contact with the rapidly rotating compressor wheel, the damage could be irreparable. Therefore, you should check on your air filters. Ensure that the filtration system is working as expected.

3. Avoid Hot Stops

You should be careful about hot stops, especially if you are the owner of a performance car. As implied, a hot stop is the process in which the engine is stopped while the turbo is still hot. This practice is highly damaging because turbochargers tend to rub red hot when driving at high speeds. If you suddenly switch off the engine while the unit is in this state, the components will need to cool down in the configuration they had during the fast drive. Therefore, once the turbo cools, these parts will be out of balance because of the rapid cool-down. You should avoid this form of deterioration by allowing for a slow cool-down. You can idle for a while after stopping, or you can drive slowly at the end of your journey for gradual cooling.

For more information on how to buy a turbocharger, contact your local auto parts store. 

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