Turbo Alignment Issue

[tsm35]

I recently removed my turbo to have it rebuilt. I'm now having problems getting the exhaust inlet pipe lined up with the turbo to install the v clamp. With the turbo mounted on the pedestal there is a half inch gap to the exhaust inlet from the exhaust manifolds. If the bolts are removed from the pedestal and the turbo is attached to the exhaust a half inch gap between the pedestal and the turbo exists. The exhaust manifold adapter pipes (that's what Ford calls them) seem very rigid so I can't believe they moved but something clearly changed. Any advice??? I tried prying on the exhaust inlet and it didn't budge. I was going to loosen all the exhaust manifold connections up to the turbo to see if enough play is there to make things line up but I thought I'd ask you guys first.

[purplehorn1977]

sounds like they didnt line the hot side back up right when they put it back together

[tsm35]

Originally Posted by purplehorn1977

sounds like they didnt line the hot side back up right when they put it back together

Thanks for the feedback, interesting thought. There are only 4 bolts that hold the hot section to the center section (cold side) and they aren't pinned so I didn't think it was critical. Is there a procedure for aligning the hot section? I don't believe the few thousands play is nearly enough to make up for the half inch gap between the turbo exhaust inlet and exhaust manifold pipe.

[CSIPSD]

There is no way not to line it up... Its only got 4 bolts so its right or its very wrong.

Sounds to me as if your up pipe and babys butt moved... As you said, loosen the manifold connections and line it up. PB blaster those bolts before you touch them or they will break.

[elibenson]

The top of the up-pipes seal against the exhaust inlet adapter with things that look like exhaust doughnuts . When they get old they lose some of their shape. It is possible to move the exhaust adapter around a little when they are bad. Not to mention that they leak when they are bad. You may need to get a new set of them. If you go this route, it is best to change the doughnuts, and then leave their bolts loose till you get everything lined up, including the V-clamp. Then tighten it all down a little at a time.

[tsm35]

Originally Posted by elibenson

The top of the up-pipes seal against the exhaust inlet adapter with things that look like exhaust doughnuts . When they get old they lose some of their shape. It is possible to move the exhaust adapter around a little when they are bad. Not to mention that they leak when they are bad. You may need to get a new set of them. If you go this route, it is best to change the doughnuts, and then leave their bolts loose till you get everything lined up, including the V-clamp. Then tighten it all down a little at a time.

Thanks that's what I thought but it sure is nice to here it from someone who knows, especially before tearing everything apart! Many thanks!