last throw before i replace the turbo (ouch!) - have read in a few places that bearing oil leaks in the turbo can be caused by a blocked oil return line.

the turbo is a garrett...

anyone replaced the return line, got any tips, any costs or any indication of the time to do the job any tools of particular use etc...i have read the stuff in the FAQ and gather half a bucket of spare o-rings is a good idea...

Get the two replacement gaskets before you remove the tube (one flat and a rubber ring). On my 93, both gaskets were so dry that they got damage on removal. Had to wait for Volvo part counter to open before I could drive the car again.
JF

I think I also remember reading that excessive intake blockage (such as a very dirty air filter) can cause oil to be sucked through the seal on the compressor side.

Greg

yeh i read that....hence if fitted a new filter and cleaned everything out...still nice idea..

Easy if you do it from below, with the front end up on jacks or ramps. Remove the actuator rod from the turbo to provide room to maneuver the upper end of the pipe out.

so the conserted responce is it can be done from below without removing the turbo...thats great makes it worth a go....

Im guessing fro mthe tone of the posts its a couple of hours of a job (assumming tea and standing time for the penetrating oil to seap in so I can get the *&^$&*^*&"^ bolts out!)

Also on a by the by...anything to be careful off in particular e.g. shearing studs?

You also have to remove the oil filter.

I use a long 12-18" 3/8" extension with a universal socket on the bizness end....a 3/8" impact wrench works pretty good here too.

Take note, too, that notwithstanding the volvo manual instruction that you can reinstall the turbocharger with the drain tube bolted to the turbo, maybe, maybe not. I went through two seals and finally reinstalled the engine/tube seal from the bottom.

On the Mitsu turbo, you can leave the filter in place. It takes a little twisting, but the return line will come out and go in without a problem. Garrett may be different.

.

I have done it both ways and with two people and the drain pipe on loosly it will work. Alone, it is easier to mount the turbo first and then attack from below. I have had to use some masking tape to keep the bolts in the socket to ease frustration.

dick
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93-940T + 91-940SE + 87-740GLE = One Happy Volvo Garage!