Hey guys I recently picked up this 87 Grand National which is mostly stock (owner said he installed a walbro fuel pump with hot wire kit, 3.5 inch downpipe, boost controller, scan master and turbo gauge, changed the battery, but everything else is stock). Owner said he was getting ready to replace the turbo but doesn't have the time and money to deal with the car anymore. I know how a turbo works but what I am looking at in these pics? Is that the actuator sticking out and is that ok? I see the boost controller towards the front but how is it used? I plan on buying a new turbo, injectors, chip, and alcohol at some point. Sorry if these questions seem dumb, any help would be appreciated, thanks.
New GN owner needing help
- Thread starter BMA22
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Yes, that thing with the rod sticking out of it is the actuator, but it's not currently doing anything because of the external waste gate and boost controller. It probably isn't hurting anything, but unless there's some wacky set up that isn't readily visible, it's not necessary for it to be there.
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The big silver thing is the wastegate actuator assembly. If the car is otherwise stock, it's WAY overkill.
Given your apparent n00bness, you really need to get engaged with some local Buick people to show you around your car. Also, go over to GNttype.org and read everything in the tech section.
Given your apparent n00bness, you really need to get engaged with some local Buick people to show you around your car. Also, go over to GNttype.org and read everything in the tech section.
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Double post.
NY Twin Turbo
All the good stuff.....Times 2.
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That big thing sticking out of the downpipe is the wastegate. The boost controller is a valve that lets air pressure bleed away from doing it's job. Which is opening the wastegate.
If you use the valve to bleed air away from opening the wastegate, it doesn't open. This increases boost. Don't mess with that valve until you know enough to be ready. If anything, you should close it all the way. Then check boost. Then open it S-L-O-W-L-Y one turn at a time and see how much boost increases with each turn.
That old looking smaller canister (under the turbo) with the rod sticking out of it.........That's the factory wastegate. It's not doing anything anymore. That can be removed.
Take more pictures. I bet this car is more modified than you think.
If you use the valve to bleed air away from opening the wastegate, it doesn't open. This increases boost. Don't mess with that valve until you know enough to be ready. If anything, you should close it all the way. Then check boost. Then open it S-L-O-W-L-Y one turn at a time and see how much boost increases with each turn.
That old looking smaller canister (under the turbo) with the rod sticking out of it.........That's the factory wastegate. It's not doing anything anymore. That can be removed.
Take more pictures. I bet this car is more modified than you think.
