Where would I check for shaft play on a turbo? I might be picking one up soon, and I'd like to maks sure it dont break anytime soon.
Anything else I should look for? Thx.

 

Just grab the shaft (okay that sounds bad) and make sure it doesnt move around to much, some shaft play is normal, most turbos have oil floating bearings, and as soon as you fill it with oil the slack goes away. Just look for bent or chiped finns on the comressor and just out of usual wear and tear. allso make sure that theres no bolts broken off in it, i have heard horror stories about people getting turbos with bolts still in them, but you can all ways drill and tap!

good luck
Rob

 

Excessive front to rear play indicates a worn thrust bearing while excessive side to side play indicates worn shaft bearings and sometimes a bad thrust collar. If the blades and housings show contact then the turbo isn't worth buying.