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!
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
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.
Get a gtb1749v (Garrett).
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.
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?
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.
Thanks for the advice. I appreciate the help!