BMW E60 turbo whines or howls
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My E60 turbo whines or howls, what causes it?
The cause can be a leaking gasket in the flange between the turbo and the exhaust manifold, in which case the noise stops after replacing the gasket. Another cause is the exhaust-side guide vanes seizing or coming loose from the shaft. Then power drops and the exhaust pressures rise too high.
When does the turbo need replacing?
If the guide vanes do not move properly, the turbo overspeeds and the exhaust pressures rise. Installing a new turbo removed the howl and improved throttle response and low-end pull. First check the flange gasket and the condition of the exhaust manifold.
How much play may the turbo shaft have?
There must be no axial play at all when the shaft is secured. Radial play is normal, because the shaft spins on an oil film. The vanes must not touch the housing.
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