my seals are going bad on my garret t-4 and its blowing some smoke out my exhaust. i really want to keep the turbo but i've heard once u rebuild it, it will never be the same. and the new seals will go out quick. is this true?

 

a turbo doesn't really have seals, they are more like little tiny piston rings. The rings can be replaced easily, but if the groove that the ring slides in is worn, then you need to replace the shaft as well. Most people will recommend that you have it balanced after you put it back together.