My '98 2500 Automatic Cummins Turbo (4-wheel dr) is whining, a high-pitched squeel, when I accelerate. I was told it is the turbo, but what does that mean? I have had the truck 2 years and it has never squeeled like this before. Please, can anyone help? Does it mean something is going bad? I'd appreciate any suggestions, especially since whenever I take it into a shop, I end up "taking it in the shorts." Thanks.

 

Well I got something to say that you aren't going to like. My 01 did the same thing and a little while later I had a Blown Turbo on my hands. :'( $870 for a rebuilt, $1,200 for a new one Mopar prices. I lucked out b/c mine was still under the 5 year or 100,000 mile warenty. If your truck is still under warenty I recomend getting it into the shop soon before you get stuck on the side of the road like me with a 32 foot trailor. My dealership had a new turbo in about 2 days so the wait wasn't to bad.

 

One more thing make sure all your boots are in good shape this might have caused you troubles it is what caused mine. If one of your boots is messed up go to http://www.piersdiesel.com they have better and CHEAPER boots.

 

Do yourself a BIG favor and get an aftermarket TUNED turbo from someone like Piers. The cost will be very close to those mopar prices quoted above for a better turbo.

They can set you up for standard output (with better spool-up and reliability) OR prepare you for power upgrades;D

I need a turbo right now, but it's just because I'm dumping more fuel in than DC ever thought of. 8)

Oh, and it's a real easy bolt on thing. 4 bolts to the manifold, two for the exhaust and a couple of oil lines.

 

When I THOUGHT my turbo was whining I found it was a crack in the exhaust manifold.

 

Definately check your boots. Especially the one that comes off the turbo then to the pipe into the intercooler. That was my problem. It was just loose. I tried everything and this was what did it. Something so simple. I am guessing thats your problem. If you need a pic of which boot was loose on mine let me know and I'll get you one.

 

Mine has developed a loud squeal/ whistle when the Jacobs is on. I'm wondering if I have a cracked manifold.

 

I have had turbos get a carbon build up on the exhast side. Check to see if you any trust in the turbo. I have cleaned out the carbon and that is all it is.