So, I just checked my turbo for shaft play for kicks and its wiiggling; the damned thing is relatively loose and has been rubbing against the inside wall of the inlet as it spun. Oil was always provided to the turbo with a restrictor as well, so lack of lubrication couldn't of caused this. Anyone have similar experiences?

Just great, thank god I'm not too upset considering they sell for $200.00

I need some good recommendations for a new turbo, something of decent quality; a Garrett or something with an internal wastegate perhaps. But also won't break the bank.

 

What turbo manifold do you have?
What motor?
Modifications?
Exhaust?
Power goals?
Car goals?

 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/88-00-Civic-EF-EG-EK-1-5L-1-6L-D15-D16-D16Y-SOHC-T3-T3-T4-T04E-Turbo-Charger-Kit-/171388486327?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item27e78cc2b7&vxp=mtr
This is basically what I have, the exhaust manifold is the exact same one.

 

See above for mods.

 

Get a Garret T3/T4 .50 or .57 trim turbo. May be able to find it with the 5 bolt exhaust housing and use the same downpipe. If not, a simple conversion to 4 bolt or Vband would get you on track.

You'll probably want bigger injectors too. They look very small.

Find one of these:
http://www.go-autoworks-store.com/gat345tr.html

Used would save you some bucks.