how deep am I in it?

[capt_casual]

I have been chasing a problem on an 02' 7.3 for a while and recently the symptoms became more pronounced so I dove in and checked the uvch and connections. Well, all looked pretty sound under the valve covers but I noticed a crack on the rubber intake flange of the turbo. There is some oil/roadgrime/dust mixture on the inside of the flange, downstream of the crack. I have changed the oil and ordered a replacement but I wonder how much damage has been done and if it has anything to do with the original complaint? ei. sounds; fluttery stuttery, feels; stumbley bumbley mostly when it's cold and especially in the 1500-1800 range. also, it seems to shift harder and at random points until everything is good and hot.

[NoRalPh]

I wouldn't worry too much, the chance that you ingested a significant amount of dirt from up there, through a crack, are pretty remote I think. Unless it's been driven on dry, dusty roads a lot I don't see it having done real damage (still fix it of course )