Best turbo for 1.9 AAZ in VW Camper

[Gizmoman]

I am new here and have done some searching but no definite results.

I have an 82 diesel Vanagon that I purchased recently. The PO has upgraded the motor to a 1.9 IDI TD and did a fine job overall. I don't have specifics right now (part numbers) but I do have a bit of a screaming noise coming from the turbo. I did build my own boost controller and have raised the boost from 10 to 15 PSI. All was great for a month or so but now the turbo starts to "scream" if I go over about 8 psi (after it's well warmed up).

I don't know exactly which turbo model I have but have read here that there are rebuild kits available. I have also read that there are "indestructible" turbos available. My thoughts are that the impeller is rubbing the housing and the thrust bearings are shot. Seems odd though that it only screams when its good and warm but things change when they are hot.

I'd like to know what the best turbo would be for my application (city and freeway driving in Southern California). I would rebuild this one if possible but what's the point if it can't take the 15 psi (which really helped the van get moving).

Any perspectives appreciated.

Thanks

[GEE-BEE]

Depends on your manifold

There are some new KO3 on ebay for 420.00, the price of a overhaul

If you need a ohc, I would go with Gpopshop.com

For more application info , Check with Justin at greaseworks.com

Hope it works out...

GB

[410]

My vote is for a k14 or a garrett t2.  I had a k14 in my toyota and liked it.  Boost builds low in the rpm range which is great for a heavy vehicle. 

[Syncroincity]

Are you running the AAZ eaxhaust manifold? K-14 won't work unless you get a TDI adapter left engine mount. Avoid the ones with the built-in wastegate actuator (looks like a model airplane engine) they will not clear your engine mount. T-2 is a good choice, if you can find one. You may need to start visiting ebay.de and look over in Germany. A VNT is an option, too, but  a lot of work to set up correctly.

[Gizmoman]

Thanks all for the helpful info.
I'll need to get some more specific info on exactly what I have already.
I'm pretty happy with the turbo that's on there now but as I said, it's sounding a bit tired.

[R.O.R-2.0]

do you have any boost leaks? they make the engine feel sluggish, and make the turbo really scream.

[Laurentian]

I bought a '90 Jetta Flair parts car other day that had been swaped AAZ.
Buddy next door pulled the motor tranny and as I was strapping it onto a skid
I took a double take when I saw the T2 on it. First time ever seeing one up close.
My guess is it came off a Passat originaly ?
Most AAZ's in montreal have a K14 or the smaller K03.

I'll look over the shaft play tomorrow before I ship it out to DMF Diesel
for a drop in into my MKII Jetta GLI clone.

Have really been lucking out on parts recently.
Seems only the brave left fussing with the older
diesels my neck of the woods.

Hugh

[blackdogvan]

The spendy option is a ko3 hybrid from bora parts. Good for up to an extra 20hp they say with ic & more fuel. Reported to be quite tough & good for 18psi all day.

[Gizmoman]

Just wanted to thank everyone for the responses.
The screaming noise did turn out to be a leak between the turbo and the exhaust manifold.
One bolt was out and resting on the custom motor mount, another took 4 full turns to tighten. And the last took two turns.

All's quiet now.
The turbo itself looks good from the intake end and i couldn't even get the slightest end or side-play 

[R.O.R-2.0]

glad you got it fixed!

[8v-of-fury]

I think even the tiny k03's can produce 13-15psi rather easily, and as low as 1900rpm (Which may be beneficial to you in a van, seeing as how you probably aren't screaming it around above 3000rpms). Really though without an IC, 15psi is right on the border of being counterproductive, after that un-intercooled you will be pushing hot compressed air in to the engine and that won't help anything.

[Gizmoman]

Yea - I know,
Frozen boost is on the list.
An EG temp sensor is also going to be required - hate to do a melt down
I also just bought a tiny-tach which should arrive in a few weeks.

Too much to do