Fading turbocharger boost

970,000

Yes, I'm resurrecting this thread I created, because of a recent puzzling development in my brother's truck with the CAT Acert 15 (2003 model year). Last month he put it in the shop to repair the radiator, went on vacation and came back. First thing he noticed was a dramatic lack of power, getting only 10 psi boost with intermittent spikes to 28 psi. The shop looked at the turbo and found that the bearing was worn badly (on a turbo that had less than 300,000 miles!). "#### it!", said my brother, "Order a turbo from Pittsburgh Power!"

They installed the PP Turbo, a beautiful thing. Total turbo porn.

Same problem.

So the head mechanic got in the passenger seat and hooked up his computer, while my brother took it for a test drive. Lo and behold the computer showed zero boost at any time, even if the boost gauge showed 10 psi and occasional spikes. They got back to the shop and immediately looked at the boost sensor. It was cracked in two, allowing connection when he hit a bump. The shop decided that one of their mechanics must have stepped on it during work on the radiator. After replacing the sensor he took it for a test drive and was amazed at the immediate power on throttle, nothing at all like the OEM turbo.

That broken sensor never allowed the ECM to detect the need for more fuel. He might have fixed the issue with the sensor only, but has no regrets putting in that new turbo.

 

Yep, I am going to look for a connection with the output and software for my computer to get codes off my Cummins. Another forum member noted that Cummins software is openly available. I want to be well informed and let the shop know what to do before they do it.

Nothing sucks more than throwing thousands of dollars at $10 problem.

By the way, my brother hauled close to 80K this morning. That Pittsburgh Power turbocharger responded immediately to any throttle input. No delays. Power on demand. I'm thinking about putting in a PP Turbo myself.