I have a 1995 turbo 850 wagon, and two months ago took it to Meineke to get the catalytic converter replaced. The turbo has not been overly happy since, and when it recently got worse, I took it back to have the muffler replaced. Both repairs were necessary, I just think I perhaps should not have taken it to Meineke because the turbo still would not register full range on the boost gauge. So I took it to a local independent Volvo shop, where I have been told that the cat and muffler that Meineke put on (they actually put on two cats) are too small and thus restricting the outflow from the turbo. We really can't afford at this time to pay the indie shop to replace the system, and I am sure that Meineke will not be able to make it right.

My question is this: Will it hurt the turbo to run in this restricted condition until we get a little more in the bank? I know my gas mileage will be lower, but it doesn't seem to be running any hotter. Any help would be appreciated.