I'm currently getting ready for an OM617 swap into my '72 Toyota FJ40. That said, I'm knocking out all the PM before it goes in, etc.

I adjusted the valves and replaced the glowplugs the other day on my OM617.952 the cranked it up just to make sure everything was good. I had noticed before doing this that the turbo was blowing a little bit of blue smoke, so I figured I'm either looking at a worn out ring(s) [I haven't been able to compression test it], or my turbo is leaking some oil from the journal bearings (?). I pulled off the downpipe so I could get a look and sure enough there's oil pooling in the exhaust section of the turbo. So, I'm thinking it's most likely the turbo. Also, I've run the motor for a couple of minutes with a cooling system and it doesn't have ANY blowby, spatter, or smoke/steam in the valve cover at operating temp.

I'm pretty sure a turbo rebuild is in order, regardless, as it is good PM that most people don't think about--and well, since I'm in there...

My questions:
1) any recommendations on a quality, made in USA rebuild kit?
2) is it worth upgrading to a cartridge type unit? (this vehicle will see on and off-road use (OM617 to early GM NV4500)

Here's a link to a video to show the oil weep/seep/leaks:

 

nothin'?

found this:
T3 T4 Dynamic Rebuild kit - XS Boost Turbochargers

 

Well guys, who the hell am I kidding, nobody is reading this post...

Anyways, I pulled the turbo off today. Broke it down and sure enough, the dynamic rings are shot. I'm also going to pull the intake and exhaust manifolds off and blast them while I'm in there. The intake manifold is pretty gummed up from that damn EGR. I can't believe how well this thing ran even all gunked up and with a shot turbo. Pics to follow if anyone wants them for reference.

 

Delete the egr and plug those manifold holes. It'll run much cleaner. Ed

 

I've got the EGR delete kit, I'm just trying to read up on brazing cast iron as I'd rather weld the exhaust manifold up and block off the intake.

 

I just used a piece of soft copper slightly larger than the egr end od, then shaped it over the egr nipple in the vice and used the clamp to hold it in place on the manifold. No sense tempting fate.

 

No leaks? Thought about JB Weld with the little disc I have, but I don't know how well that will hold up to heating and cooling cycles.

 

A bead of orange hi-temp silicone holds up well for sealing. 2+ years and no leak.

 

copy all... I suppose trying to find a reason to gas weld might be looking for trouble...

 

Don't give up so quick; there's always the exhaust that needs doin'! Get it all setup and weld it together with oxy/acetalene. Did mine that way for years before going to tig and s.s. A torch is never a bad investment. Ed