Troubleshooting On Exhaust Turbocharger: Introduction

For charged engines, exhaust turbochargers are of significant importance to the power development. The turbochargers deliver the charging pressure that is required by the engines. Depending on the system (one-phase or multi-phase), one or more turbochargers are installed. However, the function of the turbocharger greatly depends on the proper function of other components in the periphery.

This article describes the sources of fault on the actual exhaust turbocharger as well as the factors influencing and causing faults in the periphery.

The following pictures show examples for the schematic structure of one-phase or multi-phase systems with the subsequently required actuators.

Fig 1: Turbochargers Operation Diagram (One-Phase System)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

One-phase system 

Fig 2: Turbochargers Operation Diagram (Two-Phase System)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Two-phase system 

Fig 3: Identifying Turbocharger Components

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Sectional view of turbocharger