Hi
I am seeking a bit of sensible help on some work I am considering attempting.
I belive the turbo cartridge is failing. On starting the engine there is a massive puff of black dirty smoke. Ive changed the oil which was like black sludge and I cleaned out some of the hoses which were oily. Anyway the bearing is loose on the turbo and it needs changed. At the same time I am considering changing the intercooler rather than cleaning an old one.
I have looked on ebay and its possible to get hybid turbos for 200tdi's. They claim to improve performance. Are they worth the extra or should I stick with a bog standard type? I assume they are the same to fit? Also the new intercooler will be larger than the orginal so are there any issues with fitting and are modifications required?

My plan is to remove the turbo and clean it and change the turbo cartridge and in theory put it all back together. Is there anything else I should do?

One last thing, my transmission box has been leaking. I drained it and changed the oil. I am wondering if the leak is a symptom of one of the breathers being blocked? Is there anyway to check?

Nice Fender - The black puff of smoke on start up on a 200tdi is a trade mark. However, if you have play in the turbo you need to sort this.

Some radial play in the turbo is normal as it’s a floating bearing. It shouldn’t be excessive and definitely shouldn’t allow the vanes to touch the housing.

Puff of black smoke on starting is normal as above.

Given the age and likely mileage of your 200 unless you are doing a full engine rebuild just use standard items. Black puff is due to an automatic excess fuel start system.
Seal gone is the probable reason for the leak.

I have put the £200 or so one in from turbo rebuilds on ebay and all good so far, the DGT failed and not got round to replacing so not wound it up yet, but done 2000 miles on it and not blown up yet

Good, and have you sorted the transmission leak ?

Good, and have you sorted the transmission leak ?

Double post. Forum system seems to have lost the plot.