Model: 2004 GT Cruiser (see attached for detail)
Metrage: 81,000km (51,000miles)
Problem:
I have a new high pitched howl or whine coming from the turbo unit which varies in pitch, while rpm remains constant. Also blue smoke in the exhaust when I operate in 3rd gear at 3000 RPM for 20 seconds. It just started to happen all of a sudden. Before that, turbo was whisper quiet
I pulled the vacuum lines for wastegate and surge valve (similar to BOV), no change in sound other than WG doesn't kick in, so the sound happens all the time.
No damage to turbine visible, and no end play and no side-side play in turbine shaft. No boost pressure at any RPM.
No Engine codes. I pulled the plug on the WGA Solenoid, then I got P0243, but that code cleared after I put the plug back on and did a few key-on cycles.
Removed surge valve (see my other post today on that topic). Not stuck. Operated WGA lever by hand. Not stuck.
Turbine spins when engine revs but stops quite abruptly when engine drops to idle. Turbine turns smoothly by hand, no drag or roughness.
No unusual or harsh driving conditions. Do not usually do idle cooldown. Do not use syntehtic oil. Change oil every 3000 miles (5000km).
Q1: Is turbo dead and about to explode, or do I just have a blocked oil return line?
Q2: Recomendations for exhaust manifold/turbo replacement? I prefer to stay OEM, or something very conservative.
