Once reserved for performance cars only, the turbocharger has found its way into mainstream motoring and may well be sitting underneath the bonnet of the car in your driveway. Manufacturers have discovered how to create useful performance gains by fitting one of these diminutive parts to the average engine. This allows them to produce a vehicle that is smaller and more efficient, for less cost. When you consider everything that is at stake and how important the turbo is, you need to do your part by paying attention to its maintenance. Furthermore, you need to modify your driving behaviour if you want to get a good return on this investment, so what should you be aware of going forward?
What You Need to Know
The turbo increases efficiency by boosting the air intake to the combustion chamber, allowing fuel to be used more efficiently. Within its casing are a number of crucial parts, and the turbine itself spins at a very high rate when in full flow. Consequently, it's crucial to use only high-grade oil to lubricate these parts as conventional off-the-shelf products will not do. Whenever you conduct routine maintenance, always ensure that you spend the extra money to get the best quality material, and if you're not sure what to get, have a look at your owner's manual or ask a professional mechanic.
Speeding up
Modify your driving habits to look after the turbo, particularly when you begin and end your journeys. Don't be in a rush to drive away when you first start the car in the morning and let it sit for at least a minute to allow the turbo to warm up. You're not going to do tremendous damage if you drive away slowly, but you should certainly not pull onto the motorway at high rates of speed when the turbo is cold.
Slowing down
When you come to the end of your journey and pull off that motorway, allow the turbo to 'spool down' before you switch off the engine. If you don't, this can cause damage to the turbine and other moving parts, and over time this wear and tear could add up to a costly failure.
Taking the Time Makes a Difference
Don't underestimate the importance of the turbo, and always make sure that you service the part in accordance with the manufacturer recommendations. Inattention will lead to a slowdown in efficiency and more money spent at the pump.
Contact companies such as Denco Diesel & Turbo for more information.
