Is there any sort of break-in process for a new turbo? I purchased a new JCW turbo and will be installing this coming weekend. Just want to see if anyone has a process before first startup or first miles of driving? Will be changing oil lines, manifold to block gasket, manifold to turbo gasket and turbo to DP gasket in the process.

 

Looks like you have most covered exceot I'd recommend just before installing the turbo, do a complete oil change with filter. The biggest item for a turbo is clean, constant flowing oil to lube and cool the bearings. And, like on my Cummins diesel engine, if your running it real hard, give it a few minutes to cool down before turning it off. At idle, it keeps the bearings lubed and cools it a bit before letting it sit and realling cooling off. Basic turbo consideration.

The supplier of the turbo or in the manufactures webpage should have informaton / recomendations you can read. If your having problems finding it, call the manufacture. Most are real helpful to their customers.

 

Most people will recommend squirting a couple CC of oil into the oil feed before initial startup so as to give it a prime of oil, but you're not going to hurt anything by not pre oiling it. I've wanted to test how quickly you get oil pressure to the turbo on startup by cracking the feed line loose, and it's quick... Near instantaneous. (as long as there is oil in the car)

After that there isn't much of a break in period, just let it get up to temp a few times before going crazy with it.

 

Thanks guys, I checked with the seller and he stated they are "pre-balanced and tested" so no formal break in process is needed. The seller recommended priming the oil like nkfry stated just for some added insurance but not necessary and to let it idle to burn off any oils and to check for leaks. I plan on doing an oil change while replacing the turbo. Hoping that a drained system might cause a little less mess and allow my PB to soak in on all the bolts.