Newbie here! just installed my smarty jr last week been running #2 -70 hp default setting (absolutely love it) any way finishing off my gauge install i went to pic up a boost bolt from a well respected local dealer to finish my boost gauge hook up. After talking with the salesman for a moment he told me the stock turbo would be toast in a month or so and that it would not handle anywhere near 70 HP more that i am throwing at it, he was quick to offer a turbo upgrade to the tune of 2000$ plus install.
Now i was born at night but it wasn't last night, i know things wear more with abuse, but using my truck as a daily driver and a mild tow vehicle that i wont be pushing all that hard until a trans upgrade of TC and VB anyways. How long will my stock turbo last (really) I haven't even installed an adjustable boost elbow yet or even tried#3 100HP and now im thinking i should only be using #1-40HP max. Am i worrying for nothing or is he right and not just finding sales slow this month! ( please comfort me and sorry for being so long winded.

 

my stock turbo lasted for 30K miles with the banks PDA stacked with the smarty, then i changed to a bigger turbo because I had more money not because i needed to sounds like he is trying to get a quick buck... or in the case 2000 haha.... what turbo was he trying to sell you anyway?

 

I have an 03 with Smarty on #9,I do have a full billet trans (TST killed the stock one) I have a boost elbow and see 30 to 35 lbs routinely.My original Turbo lasted 81,000 miles with my Volumizer set on 100hp.I had it replaced under warranty when I started hearing a siren like noise through the exhaust.Turns out even with the new turbo noise is the same. My old turbo definitely had some play but was not hitting.I am not easy on my truck.I would say you are safe on even the higher settings with your smarty.Just make sure you keep your boost under 35lbs on the high side. LJ
Note: Turbo is covered under engine = 100,000 miles

 

Funny how he tells you of bad news, but how he can profit off of you.
You'll be fine, just keep an eye on the EGT

 

And yes,your trans will go before the turbo does!!!

 

Your turbo will be just fine with a Smarty Jr. He was no doubt trying to make a sale. Sink that money in your tranny. That will make you smile

 

Thanks guys I appreciate the comfort, being all flustered i forgot the turbo was covered up to 100,000miles nice to see others have had good luck with their stockers, I guess we all have to be on our toes, there is always someone out to get you, good thing he took my last 20$ until payday for the boost fitting.
As soon as i heard the price for the turbo my ears shut off and I don't remember what turbo He was selling other than he said it had a larger shaft and bearings, I was looking for the escape route I don't like sales pressure.

 

I am still on my stock turbo...with Smarty SR on level 9 every day. Currently at 101K miles.

Like some of the others said.....buy the trans upgrades first if needed.

I do plan to upgrade my turbo.......just not sure exactly when or with what. Im considering twins.

..

 

I pulled mine off at 116k after a good amount of stacked smart abuse, still looked good. That guy is definately trying to sell you.

 

look at any of my posts in turbo threads.....

i upgraded about 3 months after making 450 w/ the stocker, but that was just because i was prepareing to throw alot more at it.

my advise, dont bother with a boost elbow.