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Progress on the datto has come to a bit of a halt over the last two days.
I was initially stumped by an engine that had spark, fuel and just wouldn’t start. I checked everything, checked each plug for spark, checked the injectors were seated properly, re-seated all the injectors but nothing. The engine just didn’t want to start, I even went and re-gapped all the spark plugs, yet this made no difference whatsoever. The craziest thing was I could get the plugs to ignite fuel when sitting atop the engine but they just didn’t seem to want to come to the party once compression was added.
I decided to run down and invest in some new plugs, no big deal and I honestly thought this wouldn’t make much of a difference. I figure that if there is some spark then there will atleast be a cough and/or splutter from the engine. Anyways, I went all out and got myself som NGK Iridium plugs (a cool $70 for 4 plugs). Checked the gaps and plugged them in. Quick turn of the key and the engine finally roars to life. Settled down and idled quite nicely too. I was happy.
This however was only the beginning of my day and there was no way on earth I was going to get away with it this easily. There was a minor water leak and whilst attending to that I noticed oil dripping from the Intercooler Piping. Ahh shit - what is this coming from. After taking off the I/C piping it was pretty clear that the oil was coming directly from the turbo.
So far, i’ve removed the compressor housing and can plainly see that the oil is leaking from just behind the compressor wheel. Now my first reaction was “shit this brand new turbo is stuffed - what a waste of money”. But after to speaking to a number of people, it appears that all maynot be lost yet.
Apparently a turbo will be prone to leak oil if the oil circulating the turbo isn’t able to exit the turbo housing. ie just say there is a blockage in your piping, the pressure in the engine is too high and stops the oil from draining away. etc… Now this may sound hopeful, but if it means not having to replace or rebuild my turbo then i’ll be EXTREMELY hopeful!
I’ve made a small list of areas to check for blockages
- oil pipe directly under turbo (drains oil and may have a kink in it not sure)
- oil catch can, seems fine but will check to be sure
- would like to test pressure when engine is running ie is the engine being allowed to breathe?
Discuss further - as i’d love to hear your ideas on how to remedy this problem
Posted By:
AJ , On:
AJ
Posted In: MCF Datsun SR20DET, Other
