Calibrating the Wastegate Actuator

[UncleDave]

Good Morning everyone. I'm in the process of getting my rebuild ready to put back in the car, and want to set my wastegate actuator to roughly stock specs.

At what PSI should the lever start to move, and how far should the lever move at max PSI?

I couldn't find any info on this (doesn't mean it's not out there, just that I'm inept at finding it, lol).

Thanks!
~Dave

 

[machinegun]

The amount of boost can be several factors

The engine, turbo, waste gate type Intercooler all affect boost.

My rule is to set the waste gate if stock and adjustable to where the rod fits the actuator arm with out any pulling on the actuator.

This should be a good start.

Once you have broken in the engine then you start adding boost by tightening that adjustable rod until you get the desired boost level and response you are looking for.

Hope this helps

 

[UncleDave]

Sounds like a good place to start. Thanks!

 

[TurboDave]

I'd recommend just a slight bit of tension when pulling the rod onto the actuator. Maybe 1/8"
No tension and you'll likely start your tuning process with a lot lag. Even the stock non adjustable arm had just over 1/8" of tension.

 

[Just a Six??]

I'd recommend just a slight bit of tension when pulling the rod onto the actuator. Maybe 1/8"
No tension and you'll likely start your tuning process with a lot lag. Even the stock non adjustable arm had just over 1/8" of tension.

Agreed. At least 1/8th tension will be about stock.

 

[salvageV6]

Using well regulated shop air and an accurate gauge a stock spring actuator will START to move at 9 psi.

Same setup a HD actuator will START to move at about 12 psi. pressure.

 

[paulg]

I find it easier to tighten the rod completely and use a Boost Controller tapped into the vac line. RJC sells a nice boost controller and cottons has a nice Turbonetics BC with a dial that clicks for easy adjustment. these can even be mounted in side the car.

 

[usetaboost]

Put it at stock length which is 5 1/4. When I started upping boost I gave it a few extra turns and put on a cheap ass boost controller to adjust the boost to 23 lbs. Stock turbo went from ho-hum to breakin loose at 40.

 

[UncleDave]

Thanks everyone. I'll probably start with 1/8" tension and go from there. FWIW, this is a new Precision TE-44; I'll have to check but I believe it's an HD actuator.

Thx

 

[GNVenom]

Disconnect the solenoid connector. Now go out for some road testing.

Adjust the wastegate so that you see 12-13 PSI at WOT in any gear. That's the base setting.

The solenoid will take it from there.