I was just rooting around and came across a replacement turbo "Core" from Rock Auto. This contains all the wear items with the exception of the by-pass valve in your exhaust housing. Just pull the cold side off and replace the core as opposed to spending four times this much on an overhaul. Slick!


http://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/m...h%2Bkit%2C1993

 

hmm? yeh i would stay away from it!

 

What's your reasoning?

 

I'm going thru a repair / replace decision process with an aftermarket turbo. Changing only the center section is more economical, but we have options there too --- new vs rebuilt. New from the original mfgr would be the preferred choice for longevity, but it's more expensive. New from someone else is risky. Rebuilt is also risky, as this is a hi-stress part --- material fatigue, who does the rebuilding and where did the parts come from, etc. Gotta do your research, or gamble.

It's not quite as simple as "Just pull the cold side off and replace the core ---". This center section (CHRA) has to be removed from both ends. Mine has a huge (3 - 4" ID) snap ring that I don't have a tool for. Then the CHRA has fragile "blades" on both ends --- needs TLC when handling. And the rebuild people recommend new units 'cause the re-builts aren't reliable.

CHRA's seem to be worth what you pay for them. Again, do your research!

 

http://gpopshop.com/services/

These guys do K03 rebuilds and can even upgrade the internals all for less than $600.00