Stock turbo shot, what to do?

[87ttypeV8]

well i am about to pick my car up from the shop this week and they say that there is about a 1/4 inch of play in the impeller

now what i am wondering is how much would it be to replace the center section?

would it be better worth it to just upgrade the turbo at this time?
i wanted to make the car a good consistent low 12s possibly bring it into the 11s and just wondering if a turbo for that power is substantially more money than a stock one.
so what i am trying to say is do i have time to save up for the better turbo or will this one be going pretty soon?
is it safe to drive with this much endplay?

i am unsure and that is why i ask you pros out there

thanks in advance for any imput!

 

[REDS HOT AIR]

If the turbo's not dumping oil out of it (smoking) then you should be ok to drive alil more ...you have been so far

definatly worth going to a ta-49 atleast if you must replace it..49 is a good lil turbo that'll work fine with alot of stock stuff but give you a power increase as a bonus

check with Taffy or Nick Micale on here to see what kinda deal they can get on a John Craig built turbo

 

[SpeednV6]

Upgrade, go with a TE-44. It spools just like a stocker, but pulls
harder.

 

[87ttypeV8]

thanks for the replys guys!
now i must save the money to upgrade to a new turbo... prolly few months away at earliest

well thanks for letting me know i can still drive at least!