is there anyway to test a turbo?

[95firebird3.4]

there is a guy on CL selling a turbo he used in his camaro. he doesnt know if the turbo is good or not so is there a way i can test it?

[auto666]

Re: is there anyway to test a turbo?

he used it but doesnt know if its any good ?
but he was using it!
doesnt that kinda sound like its bad and he doesnt want to admit it.

[ninety4three4]

Re: is there anyway to test a turbo?

side to side shaft play (move the shaft side to side in both the compressor and turbine side), in and out shaft play (move the shaft front to back from the turbine to compressor) there should be no play in any of these directions, basically see if the shaft spins freely without any rough spot while turning, check for any foreign object damage to thw wheels like broken fins, check both the compressor and turbine housing for any contact from the wheels, last check for oil and carbon deposits inside the center section these are all basic tests that can be done to see if a turbo is still in decent working condition, there are specs from any manuacturer you can do with a dial indicator but these could help you, good luck

[95firebird3.4]

Re: is there anyway to test a turbo?

he used it but doesnt know if its any good ?
but he was using it!
doesnt that kinda sound like its bad and he doesnt want to admit it.

it worked when he took it out but it has been sittting for about 7 years

[auto666]

Re: is there anyway to test a turbo?

I see

[ninety4three4]

Re: is there anyway to test a turbo?

oxidation between the shaft and bearings is going to be a concern then, make sure that it spins very freely and continues to spin for a second after you stop spinning it by hand