Replacing a Turbo on E46 330d
Replacing a Turbo on E46 330d
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Panthro

Original Poster:

781 posts

249 months

Monday 12th June 2017
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Hi guys, the bearings have seized on my 330d. The car (when it's working) is worth around £2k and I've been getting quotes of around £1k to repair it using a reconditioned unit. I don't fancy spending that much on a car that's done close to 160k miles and is 13 years old so will most likely buy a new one, but I would like it repaired at some point because mechanically it's in excellent condition, aside from the turbo. It's had a new gearbox, full BMWSH, lots of replacement parts etc.
How much of a task is it to replace the turbo myself? I've done a few mechanical jobs like replacing tie rods and electrical work but not undertaken something this big. I've got most of the tools in the form of Halfords professional sets! If I can get a recon unit from Turbo Technics or similar for £350-£400 and it takes me a couple of weekends then I'd definitely consider it, depending how straight forward it is.
Are there any guides out there on how to do it? Any tips or things I need to look out for? Thanks a lot!

helix402

7,913 posts

213 months

Monday 12th June 2017
quotequote all
Turbo isn't bad to change on these. Also wise to change oil feed pipe and gasket to manifold and bolts.
It's vital to remove the inlet manifold and intercooler to drain the engine oil from them, or the engine can run on its own oil when the new turbo is fitted.
With the new turbo crank the engine over so it can't start at first to build up oil pressure. When it does start allow it to idle to several minutes before driving or revving it. This reduces the chance of it running on its own oil. Also change the air filter and crankcase breather valve at the same time. If your car not a TU I don't recommend an upgrade to a Vortex filter.