Perkins turbo

Types of Perkins Turbo

There are two common types of Perkins turbo engines, the turbocharged engine and the turbo-compound engine.

• Turbocharged engine

  The turbocharged engine makes use of a turbine and a compressor, drawing in exhaust gases to spin the turbine and force in more air, compressing it, into the cylinders. The result is more power, efficiency, and speed. The Perkins 804D-33 Turbo engine is a good example.

• Turbo-compound engine

  The turbo-compound engine is a special kind of turbocharged engine. It uses three turbines instead of one, and the turbines capture and use most of the exhaust energy, resulting in increased efficiency and power. The Perkins 804D-22 Turbo engine is a good example.

Specifications and Maintenance of Perkins Turbo

• Oil Changes

  Perkins turbocharger engines rely on clean, high-quality oil for optimal performance. Regular oil changes following the manufacturer's recommended intervals ensure proper lubrication and reduce wear on engine components. Using the specified oil grade helps turbos and other engines run smoothly.

• Air Filter Maintenance

  Air filters should be checked and replaced regularly. Clean filters prevent dirt and debris from entering the engine, which is important for turbocharged engines that pull in large amounts of air. A clogged filter restricts airflow, which can strain the turbo. Maintaining filters optimizes turbo performance.

• Coolant System Care

  Monitoring the coolant system is essential. Coolant quality and levels should be checked, and the system flushed and refilled per specifications. Proper cooling protects the turbo from overheating, which can damage it over time. The turbo relies on the entire engine cooling system being maintained.

• Quality Fuel

  Using fuel that meets or exceeds the manufacturer's requirements is important. Perkins engines are designed for specific fuel types. Higher quality fuel ensures optimal engine and turbo performance. Lower quality fuel can lead to issues over time, affecting how well the turbo functions.

• Inspecting Exhaust

  The exhaust system should be visually examined for leaks or damage. Issues with exhaust flow can impact turbo performance. Leaks should be fixed promptly to prevent problems. The condition of the exhaust system is important for the turbocharger to work as designed.

• Regular Tune-Ups

  Regular maintenance or tune-ups should be performed on schedule. During these services, spark plugs, ignition components, and valves are checked and any worn parts are replaced. A well-maintained engine also supports the turbo in operating efficiently over the long term.

• Turbo Inspection

  Periodically, the turbo itself should be inspected for issues. The turbine and compressor wheels, as well as the housing, should be examined. Any unusual noises or damage to these components could indicate a problem that needs attention. Catching turbo issues early through inspection can prevent more serious engine problems.

• Driving Practices

  Following good driving habits is also beneficial. Avoiding excessive revs, hard acceleration, or high loads on the turbo before it has warmed up helps prolong its life. Similarly, giving the vehicle time to idle before shutdown allows the turbo to cool properly.

How to choose perkins turbo

There are several factors to consider when choosing a turbo for any vehicle, including the desired horsepower, torque, and how the car is driven. In this case, the focus will be on how to choose a Perkins turbo to suit different needs.

• Understand the engine:

  The first thing to do is understand the engine. This involves knowing its size, model number, and code. The information can be found on the vehicle's nameplate. The information will help select the right turbocharger that suits the engine.

• Consider the turbo size:

  When choosing a turbo, consider the size. Larger turbos give more power but have more lag and vice versa. The goal is to find a balance.

• Perkins turbo selection by model:

  Select the turbo by engine model. See the table above and select the turbo corresponding to the engine model. For example, the Turbo GTB2260VK is used in 6-cylinder engines with a capacity of 12.0 liters.

• Contact a professional:

  If unsure about any of the steps, contact a professional mechanic or diesel specialist. They can help choose the right turbo and ensure correct installation.

How to DIY and Replace Perkins Turbo

Replacing turbos can be a DIY-friendly project. Before starting the project, make sure to gather all the necessary tools for turbo replacement. This includes sockets and ratchets, wrenches, a torque wrench, a sump vacuum, and a new turbocharger kit. It's also important to read the service manual to know the exact procedure for removing and installing turbos for various engines.

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to replace the turbo in a diesel engine.

• Preparation

  The vehicle should be parked in a well-ventilated area, preferably away from flammable materials. The engine should be allowed to cool before starting the replacement process. The battery's negative terminal should be disconnected, and the new turbo should be pre-oiled in preparation for installation.

• Remove the old turbo

  Start by draining the coolant and oil. The coolant and oil should be removed with a vacuum and drain tube. Next, disconnect all the lines attached to the old turbo. This includes the intercooler piping, oil drain and feed lines, and cooling lines.

• Unbolt and remove the turbo

  Use a wrench or socket to remove the bolts holding the turbo to the downpipe and exhaust manifold. The turbo can now be removed from the vehicle.

• Install the new turbo

  Place the new turbo onto the exhaust manifold and secure it with bolts. Reconnect all the disconnected lines, including the oil drain and feed lines, cooling lines, and intercooler piping. The vehicle's cooling system should be bled to remove any trapped air. After filling the system with coolant, the battery's negative terminal should be reconnected, and the engine should be started to ensure the turbo is functioning correctly without any leaks.

Q and A

Q: How long do Perkins turbos last?

A: There is no definite duration for how long Perkins turbos last. Turbos last as long as they are well maintained. On average, turbos can last up to 150,000 to 200,000 miles. When the vehicle reaches this mileage, the turbo can still be good or damaged.

Q: What causes turbo engines to fail?

A: Turbo engines fail when they are not properly maintained. Turbo failure can also be caused by wear and tear, oil starvation, oil contamination, foreign material damage, excessive play, and manufacturing defects.

Q: Can a turbo be repaired?

A: Yes, a turbo can be repaired. However, it depends on the condition of the turbo. If the damage is minor, it can be repaired. If the damage is beyond repair, then the turbo needs to be replaced.