Reference

Turbochargers

• Can I adjust my new controller?

  Yes, in most cases controllers will have a small amount of adjustment Available to “fine tune” the turbocharger system. Adjustment should be accomplished IAW the engine and/or aircraft maintenance manual. Be aware that over adjusting may render the component beyond field recovery which may require the unit be returned to a certified component shop for re-certification.

• Can I change the position of the housings on a new turbocharger?

  Yes, the compressor and exhaust housings are factory set at a pre-determined position, many times for shipping purposes. The housings can be re-aligned at installation to fit the engine installation. The alignment procedure can be found under the turbocharger Installation Instructions on the Aeroforce.aero website.

• How can I determine if the wastegate butterfly valve is going through full travel within the housing?

  Disconnect and cap the oil lines to and from the wastegate assembly. With slow, steady air pressure applied, the butterfly valve should move smoothly from its full open to full closed position. When the airflow is released the butterfly valve should return to the full open position smoothly. Look for sticking or jumpy movement of the butterfly valve.

• What are the requirements when installing a turbocharger?

  First, all work should be accomplished IAW the applicable engine and/or aircraft maintenance manual.

• What is the recommended lubricant for a wastegate butterfly valve assembly?

  The age-old lubricant is a product called Mouse Milk which can be purchased through most aviation product distributors.

• Why is my new turbocharger leaking oil?

  400 series turbochargers do not incorporate seals in the center housing where the oil is located. They do incorporate small piston rings on the shaft that, along with the gas pressures pushing in, help prevent the oil from coming out. Until there is a varnish built up on the shaft and housing, a new turbocharger will leak oil. This oil seepage may last up to 10 hours but typically is gone within a couple hours of run time. Once the turbo is installed and pre-lubed, run the engine at normal operation to help “seat” the piston rings and build up the protective coat of varnish.

• Why should I pre-oil my turbocharger after a new installation?

  Pre-oiling should be accomplished at installation or any time the turbocharger oil system is disassembled for any reason. Pre-oiling insures there will be adequate oil flow at the turbocharger bearings to support the shaft load at initial start-up. Just like a crank or camshaft bearing, we do not want to “start” the turbocharger with dry bearings. Once a turbocharger bearing is compromised due to lack of lubrication, turbocharger life will be diminished. Pre-oiling instructions can be found under the turbocharger Installation Instructions on the Aeroforce.aero website.