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charlesholman@comcast.net

Turbo Failure on Caterpillar Engine

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Turbochargers fail for many reasons on newer engines.

  • Excessive idling
  • Oil passing (main reason for most and on older engines also)
  • coolant entering and passing through
  • VGT solenoid failure
  • Variable vanes sticking, usually caused by excessive idling or crud passing through like coolant. Usually caused by EGR cooler failure.

As mentioned a gauge to determine when the turbocharger is cool enough is a good tool to have so you know when its time to shut it down so you don't excessive idle the engine or shut it down to soon. The later model CAT's were notorious for turbocharger failures. I would reach out to CAT and ask for assistance.

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I recently had a turbo charger failure without any previous warning. It is a "new" 2007 Cummins engine in a new 2010 Damon Tuscany purchased as a new 2010. At first the diagnosis was the vgt actuator had failed and our Good Sam insurance was going to cover it. The next day however, Cummins sends a picture to the insurance people and I get a phone call from Cummins that MY bill is $7028.08 to replace the turbo charger. Cummins said there was rust. However, they also said that one of the freeze plugs had a pin hole in it and when they applied pressure to it, coolant leaked in. We are appealing the decision, that the primary failure was the defective freeze plug and the rust was a secondary issue.

What is this gauge that you mention that helps determine when its OK to stop the engine? Also did you get any assistance from CAT? Thanks.

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2 hours ago, bjohn said:

I recently had a turbo charger failure without any previous warning. It is a "new" 2007 Cummins engine in a new 2010 Damon Tuscany purchased as a new 2010. At first the diagnosis was the vgt actuator had failed and our Good Sam insurance was going to cover it. The next day however, Cummins sends a picture to the insurance people and I get a phone call from Cummins that MY bill is $7028.08 to replace the turbo charger. Cummins said there was rust. However, they also said that one of the freeze plugs had a pin hole in it and when they applied pressure to it, coolant leaked in. We are appealing the decision, that the primary failure was the defective freeze plug and the rust was a secondary issue.

What is this gauge that you mention that helps determine when its OK to stop the engine? Also did you get any assistance from CAT? Thanks.

The gage you are looking for is a Exhaust Gas Temperature Gage or EGT. The sensor is installed in the exhaust before the turbo. 

I won't drive a (diesel) coach with out one. They provide a wealth of information on how your engine is performing.

Bill

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Mine is part of the Silverleaf System and the EGT came installed on this coach...also, a constant real time temp probe for #1 and 2 Exhausts!  :)

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