What exactly is the deffinition of shaft play? i did a search and came up with nothing. How can you tell if your turbo has it? is it that big of a deal? is it normal with a certain type of turbo? any info on this subject would be helpful!

The reason why i ask is, i just recieved a garrett t3/60-1 and i can grab the comressor wheel and the turbine shaft and when applies with a sufficient ammout of force i can move the wheels around inside there housings a bit! About a millimeter or so to each side. i am guessing this is "shaft play"? what do i do? Turbo experts please respond!

 

a mm isnt too bad. as long as the wheels dont hit the housings anywhere, then the oil pressure will displace that play quite nicely...

 

are u sure? i spent a good amount on this trubo and i want it to last for quite some time!
but i was correct? what i am descriding would be considered "shaft play"?

 

the area that you are describing is the surface area between the shaft and bearing. the oil pressure will fill this void and create a surface for the shaft to "ride" on.
also, if this is being placed on a new motor, try to use an inline filter to the oil feed of the turbocharger or source the oil after the oil filter. "shavings" seem to always find their way between the shaft and bearing, scoring the shaft in most cases beyond repair.
please call us if you have any questions.