TE-61 turbo

[wh1-Denver]

I just bought an 86 T-type that has what I was told a TE-61 turbo on it. I just noticed that it is not mounted to the engine block like a stock one is. The only thing holding it up is the header!?! I would think that this is to much stress on the header?!? Is this the norm for this type of turbo or is there an after market bracket that needs to be used? Thanks for the help.

 

[The Radius Kid]

The factory used a brace there from the turbo center section to the engine block.It was used to support the turbo and prevent header cracking.You might want to contact the former owner and see if he still has the brace around.Some guys run without the brace,but I've also heard stories of guys having to weld their headers due to cracking because of no brace.The way I see it,the factory wouldn't waste time and money putting one on if it wasn't necessary.

 

[Raist103]

I dont use the brace and have had no problems so far (knock on wood), plus it is a bitch to change turbos when that brace is on.

 

[Intercooler]

What I would like to know is how come someone hasn't picked the ball up and come up with a nice user friendly replacement? Maybe I should look into it and see how it could be done.

 

[wh1-Denver]

I have the original bracket and it appears to have been modified by the front hole that the bolts go through from the compressor. The bracket has been cut out to look like a U at that front bolt hole. I tried to put it on but the front part of the bracket that allows the heat shield to bolt to it hits a plate that appears to be a place to bolt a different type of wastegate on the exhaust housing?
I think I'll take the stock bracket and cut the part off that is in conflict with the turbo housing. I don't want to have to weld the passenger side header. I am getting the driver side welded tomorrow !!!!! Intercooler, don’t some companies make heat shields to fit aftermarket big turbos? I hope they make the brackets to work with them. If not then I think you may have an opportunity to make some cash . I will by on if you come up with something that works. If anyone knows where to get one let me know please.
Thanks for the replies guys.

 

[MSDGN]

The bracket and turbo shield should fit fine... I have a TE-62 and I'm using the stock question mark(?) bracket un-modded and the stock turbo shield...modded for THDP only...they fit fine...if you have a Precision exhaust housing you'll need a different bracket...one with 2 holes that attaches to the turbo between the exhaust housing/center section...it has a longer leg to get past the housing when bolting up the question mark bracket...John Craig has them...