In need of some advice...replacing a turbo.

[jbm2k6]

I just picked up a 99 Beetle TDI (ALH) that has a blown turbo. I've actually removed the turbo/manifold off and verified that the turbo is toast. I noticed that there are pretty much two choices as far as replacements; Borg Warner and Garrett. I'm not sure which one to pick, as I've read good and bad about both, but I haven't really found anything pointing out if one may be better than the other.

Any suggestions and or comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[8v-of-fury]

Are they both a bolt on affair? I'd put back whatever you took off, how many miles were on it? they last forever! lol

[jbm2k6]

As far as bolting up to the motor, yes, both do. I know the Borg Warner requires a slightly different oil return line, and, both the Borg Warner and the Garrett require a different style bracket that supports the turbo from the bottom to the block.

The car has 190,000 miles or about 305,000ish km on it. It originally had a Garrett on it, but since both are roughly the same price, I wasn't sure which is the better choice.

[rallydiesel]

Get a gtb1749v (Garrett).

[JFettig]

You have more than 2 choices

I'd get the garrett if you're sticking with a VNT15. VNT17's are nice, as are 17/22's.

[jbm2k6]

I think I'm probably going to stick with a VNT15, as I know I'm going to need extras when it comes to upgrading to the VNT17. Based on what I've read, my guess is I'll at least need a tune for the 17 to run optimally, correct? Possibly different injectors? Being that it's a 99, I'll need that $200 charge pipe, too. I'm on a budget and trying to keep this as simple as possible, but, I'm open to suggestions.


On another note, I noticed that KermaTDI carries a steel braided oil feed line for the turbo. Would this be a worth-while upgrade?

[JFettig]

VNT17 will run decent on stock tune, not worth it if you're never upgrading. You can get away with an adapter and a cheaper pipe than the $200 pipe.

Braided steel lines - probably not necessary. I've pulled and installed many turbos with the stock hard feed line, no issues.

[jbm2k6]

Thanks for the advice. I appreciate the help!