Blitzen

Hello all,

I'm about to install the replacement turbo in my '86 951 and need help orienting the thing properly. The new turbo is not aligned the same as the one that came out, so I apparently need to "clock" it. I've already loosened all the necessary studs, and can rotate both sides easily. Now, I see that I don't have to be exact in my orientation of the compressor/aluminum side, since a degree or 2 one way or another can be adjusted for with the attendant plumbing. However, on the exhaust side I'd think it has to be perfect, since otherwise I'd likely invite exhaust leaks. Any thoughts on this?

Thanks in advance for your help.

fast951

Place your stock turbo on the bench. Place the new turbo next to it, and clock it by comparing the two. This will get you very close, now tighten couple of turbine & compressor housings bolts, try on the car.
Once satisfied, tighten all bolts.

Blitzen

This was my plan, aided by a whole bunch of measurements. I think what I'll do, barring any superior suggestions, is to guesstimate the correct orientation as described, lightly tighten 1-2 accesible exhaust-side fasteners, then install it in the car (exhaust side only), , loosen the fasteners, bolt it up, then tighten them again, pull the turbo & properly secure everything.

I'll post my results on the board :-)

special tool

You won't be getting any turbocharger suggestions superior to his.

Blitzen

Thanks Jim, from a Board newbie that can't yet always tell the quality info from the educated guesses ;-)