Avoiding Air Intake Failure Types
Revised July, 2023
In the world of heavy duty trucks and trailers, the air intake system plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal engine performance and efficiency. However, just like any other mechanical component, air intake systems are prone to failures. Identifying and understanding these common failure types and their possible causes is essential for truck and trailer owners, operators, and service providers in the independent heavy duty aftermarket industry.
Long Live the Turbocharger
The beginnings of the turbocharger dates to 1905 when Swiss engineer Alfred Büchi received the first turbocharger patent. Years later, turbochargers were used in large passenger ships, aircraft engines, and eventually made their way into automobiles in the 1930’s.
The turbocharger consists of a turbine, compressor, and center housing hub rotating assembly. These main components work together in supporting the forced induction that provides power to the engine.
Before Installation
Before installing a new turbo, it is important to evaluate and identify the root cause of the failure. You can accomplish this by using a common set of indicators.
Use the TurboCharger Troubleshooting Matrix below to determine if the issue lies within the turbocharger. This matrix addresses various types of air intake failures. Understand the failure’s causes and gain valuable insights to keep your vehicles running smoothly.
| Possible Cause | Problem Indicator | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Smoke | Black Smoke | Blue Smoke | Oil Leakage, Turbine End | Turbo Noise | Unusual Oil Consumption | Engine Lacking Power | Elevated Boost Pressure | Defective Turbine Compression Wheel | |
| Leaking or damaged oil feed and drain line | X | X | X | X | |||||
| Restricted crankcase breathers | X | X | X | X | |||||
| Sludge or coke in the center housing | X | X | X | X | |||||
| Wastegate swing valve does not close | X | X | |||||||
| Wastegate swing valve does not open | X | ||||||||
| Wastegate valve defective | X | X | |||||||
| Foreign object damage to turbine or compressor | X | X | X | ||||||
| Exhaust gas leakage present between exhaust pipe and turbine outlet | X | ||||||||
| Engine air box cracked or missing | X | X | X | ||||||
| Turbine housing damage | X | X | X | X | |||||
| Improper oil supply to turbo | X | X | X | X | |||||
| Clogged catalytic | X | X | X | X | |||||
| Defective piston ring seal | X | X | X | X | |||||
| Bearing damage of turbo | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | |
| Increased blow by | X | X | X | X | X | X | |||
| Charge or compression air cooler dry | X | X | X | X | X | X | |||
| Dirty air filter | X | X | X | X | X | ||||
| Fuel management system defective or improperly adjusted | X | X | X | ||||||
| Worn engine components such as piston rings, valve guide, engine or cylinder liners worn | X | X | X | X | X | X | |||
| Turbine housing leakage | X | X | X | X | X | X | |||
| Turbo suction hose obstructed or pressure line leaking | X | X | X | ||||||
| Restricted flow in the exhaust system | X | X | X | X | X | X | |||
Maximize Up Time
Maintain the performance and longevity of heavy duty trucks and trailers. Equip yourself with the knowledge of various air intake failure types and their potential causes. Regular maintenance is vital for preventing failures and optimizing engine efficiency.
By understanding these common failure types, they can promptly identify and resolve air intake problems. Enjoy smooth operations for the road ahead.
* The forgoing is provided for informational purposes only. Please consult your local FleetPride Heavy Duty Experts to verify the suitability of a part for the intended application.