If you were to buy a used turbo what would you look for to tell if it functional and in good working condition and how would you do it???

 

in the future you might want to refrain from teh homo-esque ascii art in the title of your thread....you may actually get some replies if you do so.....

in response to your question, buying a used turbo is hit or miss... Unless you are able to physically see the turbo it's still a gamble. At the price of new master power turbos you're much better off getting a new unit you won't have to guess with. However if your heart is set on buying a used turbo you check the comressor housing for any signs of the cold side rubbing, check shaft play (there will be a little bit but it shouldn't be excessive) check for oil on the turbine side and check for any chips, knicks etc on the cold side.

 

Just to add to the above: Some turbos have a little side to side play (should not in no way have enough for the wheel to touch the housing) but any in and out play is a bad sign. I also agree with the price of the Master Power turbos, unless it's a smokin deal on a high dollar turbo, I'd go new.

 

If the hot side wheel has been chewed up (get pic w/housing off). Usually gets damaged from metal going through it.