pillarian111

2003 Dodge with 5.9 stock no mods 170,000 miles. I got this used and noticed at 2nd oil change under my watch the turbo blades give me pause. What do you all think is the diagnosis and course of action. Turbo seems to function well enough. the blade that looks like its cracked is my concern. Maybe its just deposits flaking off. I don't know. The blade edges also look beat up. I made sure on 1st oil change that the inlet assembly was on and tight. Now I notice this. Do I try to scrub the vane with the apparent cracking to see what is really there? Is this a no-brainer turbo replacement? if so, what OEM type replacements are worthwhile / credible? Thanks in advance.

StealthDiesel

That turbo has been ingesting dirt for a while.

Check your air filter system for leaks and the quality of the air filters you are using.

If that's the original HE341 turbo with 170k miles, it's not worth rebuilding IMO.
Good used 2003-04 HE341 turbo's are a dime a dozen.

Good used 2004.5-07 HE351 turbo's are also available and a good upgrade for a few more dollars.

deere country

What type of air filter are you using, a k&n by chance?

pillarian111

The airfilter was about 1 1/4 thick but I forget the manufacturer. I replaced with a much thicker paper wic napa filter.

The current turbo looks to be a HY35W. The housing and attachments look different than the HE351.

pillarian111

my 2003 ISB 305 truck is a 6 speed manual. Hope that helps.

StealthDiesel

Trying to post a picture below. (I hope Photobucket declares bankruptcy in the near future.)
Not my picture.


Stock 2003-04 HE341 on the left. Modified (electronic wastegate removed) 2004.5-2007 HE351 on the right.