Turbo Run Time...

[03LtAldPTGT]

Im getting 2003-04 PT GT. My ? is how hard and long and what kind of special care I need to do so I dont totally dawg her out too quick. This will be the first turboed vehicle Ive owned and know absolutely nothing about it. I was reading through turbo install threads and seen certain kind of oils, and certain octane gas needed to be used and read that people give it a cool down time after running so long. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, "JT"

[GLH_TC 16V]

Well, first and foremost I would run synthetic oil. It is more durable and an overall better lubricant than regular dino juice, your turbo will absolutely love you for it.

As for the cooling down period after you run the car, here is my advice to you. If/when you know that you are going to be stopping soon, do not run the engine hard (ie stay out of boost). I usually take it really easy the last 2 or so minutes of my trip and I do a bit of 'engine braking'. The engine braking sucks in air into the cylinders and cools things down because there is no combustion. No additional cool down period is required, just shut off the engine. If you have been running the engine particularily hard before you want to shut down (ie drag racing or a spirited run on the highway), I usually pop the hood and let the engine go through 1 fan cycle (from when it turns on and then shuts off). If you can, leave the hood open to prevent heat soak. This is particularily beneficial to the life of all the rubber hoses you see under the hood and helps dissipate the heat much quicker.

We've used this method on ALL of our turbo cars (5 of them) and have never, ever had a turbo related problem.

[03LtAldPTGT]

Thanks for he help. Im not saying Im going to go tear her up as soon as I get her, but I do like speed as well and dont want to mess her up too too soon.