How much play is bad in the shaft of a turbo? The turbo is off a 97 dodge 3500 I am not sure what turbo it even is. I can move the shaft up and down and side to side a little bit. Can these be rebuilt?

 

yes they can be rebuilt. if i am not mistaken i think a little front to back shaft play is ok but side to side isnt. i may have that backwards.... someone please confirm

 

Also could someone please tell me what turbo would be the stock one for this truck?

 

Radial play is fine so long as it doesn't touch the compressor housing. Axial play is what you want to avoid. '97 will have an HX35W on it.

 

Side to side play is ok...as long as it doesn't rub the housing or seem excessive. Thrust play (in & out) is no good and must be fixed or it won't last very long.

HX35W's are easy to rebuild. A Holset rebuild kit off the internet or turbo shop, a bench vise, some hand tools, and a pick and you can rebuild it yourself in less than an hour. The compressor wheel must be properly torqued and clocked on the turbine shaft to the same position it was in when removed otherwise it will be off balance. Most turbo shops charge about $250-$350 for a basic rebuild.