C15 Engine Twin Turbo?

Discussion in 'Peterbilt Forum' started by joyz11, Sep 4, 2011.

  1. joyz11

    joyz11 Bobtail Member

    3
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    Feb 23, 2011
    SC
    0
    We have a 2006 Peterbilt 387 with a C-15 twin turbo engine. Driver was going down the road and heard a loud bang and thought it was a tire. After he realized it wasn't a tire, he thought it might be a broken rocker arm since it is knocking while the engine is running. He had it towed and serviceman told him it wasn't a turbo or a dropped injector (and didn't think it was a broken rocker arm) but he isn't certified to open a CAT motor so he hasn't actually looked inside the engine. The serviceman is guessing that it is (a) dropped pistons or (b) a bad head. He is suggesting that we convert it to a single turbo engine since twin turbos have so many issues. Should we get the engine switched over to a single turbo or just get head work done on the twin turbo?
    We, of course, need this truck back on the road ASAP so any advice on which would be the most cost effective in the long run is greatly appreciated. Thanks!
     
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  3. jr-transport

    jr-transport Light Load Member

    How many miles on the motor? its a $4000-7000 touch to switch an ACERT to a single turbo. if its a high mile motor, I'd just put in a 6NZ or bridge motor that has low miles. it will cost high teens to low $20k's to replace it, but converting a high mile motor.....well you are gonna spend the $10-15k on and inframe soon any way.


    thats my nickels worth.
     
  4. oneshot

    oneshot Medium Load Member

    626
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    Feb 28, 2009
    mississippi
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    Sounds like it broke a couple intake valve acuator bolts.If so hope it didnt ruin ur head.If u change it to a single turbo a certified CAT shop will not be able to work on it again.
     
  5. scarecrow56

    scarecrow56 Light Load Member

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    Oct 31, 2006
    palm bay, fl.
    0
    Also I was told by Cat they wont do the work to switch it either
     
  6. bringthenoise

    bringthenoise Bobtail Member

    17
    3
    Oct 18, 2013
    0
    I have heard just as many bad things about swapping to single turbo as i have just keeping the twins. Depends on how reliable the setup has been so far in my opinion. Ive had ppl say they change the turbos like socks and others swear they last forever. Just my opinion. Cost vs savings
     
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