Oil Leak from Compressor Seal
January 07, 2021The Oil leaks can be caused by many factors, the main factor being incorrect pressure within the compressor and turbine housings. Oil leaks can cause vital damage to the bearing systems and occur within seconds of turbocharging.
Waring: The troubleshooting guide may only be conducted with the vehicle in drivable condition. Please stop the trials at signs of engine malfunction such as black smoke, excessive oil consumption, or run-away engine.
Firstly, please check the following 4 points before inspection of the turbocharger.
1. Compressor housing outlet, intercooler circuit, and connections.
2. Turbine Housing inlet, manifold circuit, gasket, and connections.
3. Turbine Housing outlet, dump pipe circuit, gaskets and connections.
4. Compressor housing inlet, air filter clean situation and connections.
When a turbocharger is installed correctly, it should NOT leak oil, however, there can be cases where oil leaks occur. The following highlights some of the main causes and signs of oil leaks.
| Possible Cause | Possible Remedy | |
| Restricted engine crankcase breather | Refer to engine manufacturer's manual, clear restriction | |
| Turbocharger bearing housing sludged or coked | Change engine oil and oil filter, overhaul or replace turbocharger as required | |
| Worn engine piston rings or liners | Refer to engine manufacturer's manual and repair as required | |
| Burnt valves and/or pistons | Refer to engine manufacturer's manual and repair as required | |
| Excessive dirt build up on compressor wheel and/or diffuser vanes | Clean in accordance with details/instructions from Kinugawa Turbo Systems | |
| Turbocharger damaged | Find and correct cause of failure, repair or replace turbocharger as necessary | |
| Dirty air cleaner |
| Clean or replace element according to manufacturer's recommendations |
| Restricted compressor intake duct |
| Remove restriction or replace damaged parts as required |
| Foreign object in exhaust manifold (from engine) | Refer to engine manufacturer's manual and remove obstruction | |
| Restricted exhaust system | Remove restriction or replace damaged parts as required | |
| Restricted turbocharger oil drain line | Remove restriction or replace damaged parts as required |
- Check for correct oil levels and pressure
- Ensure air and oil drain systems are clear from blockages or restrictions
- Check the exhaust system to make sure there are no leaks present
- Do not use silicone on oil gaskets as it can easily become detached and block oil passages.
- Ensure DPF (diesel particulate filter) and Catalytic converter are free of blockages