Long-Term Storage Tips for Turbochargers

Properly storing a turbocharger is a critical step that vehicle owners sometimes overlook. If you’re planning to set aside a turbo for an extended period, it’s important to follow the correct procedures to prevent damage. With our expert guidance on long-term storage tips for turbochargers, you can protect your investment and have confidence that your part will be ready for action. Let’s review the steps to prepare your turbo for storage.

Thoroughly Clean Before Storing

Before you put your turbo away, clean it thoroughly. Any lingering carbon deposits, oil residue, or moisture can cause corrosion and other forms of deterioration over time. Meticulous cleaning will remove these harmful contaminants.

Use an appropriate solvent to remove all oil from the bearing housing and compressor and turbine housings. Afterward, dry the unit completely, as any trapped moisture will become a problem down the line.

Prevent Internal Corrosion

Once the turbocharger is clean and dry, the next task is to protect its internal components. Rust and corrosion are the primary threats during long-term storage, especially to the precision-machined surfaces inside the bearing system.

To combat this, apply a light coat of clean engine oil or a specialized corrosion inhibitor to all internal surfaces. Manually rotate the shaft assembly to distribute the oil evenly. This protective layer will act as a barrier against moisture and air, preventing rust.

Seal Openings To Keep Contaminants Out

With the internals protected, your focus should shift to sealing the unit from the outside. The turbocharger has several openings, like the oil inlet, oil drain, and the compressor and turbine connections. These ports are direct pathways for dirt, dust, and moisture to enter. Use high-quality plastic caps or heavy-duty tape to seal every opening securely. A proper seal prevents foreign debris from getting inside and undoing all your hard work, preserving the turbo’s internal cleanliness.

Choose a Suitable Storage Location

Where you store the turbocharger is just as important as how you prepare it. The ideal storage environment is a clean, dry, and temperature-controlled space. Additionally, keep the turbo away from direct sunlight and areas with extreme temperature fluctuations. Placing the sealed turbocharger in a sturdy box and storing it on a shelf off the floor provides an extra layer of protection from potential physical damage and ground moisture.

The Right Way To Preserve Your Turbo

Following these steps will help preserve your turbocharger’s condition when it’s not in use. A little bit of prep work goes a long way toward preventing costly damage and future performance issues. By taking the time to implement these long-term storage tips for turbochargers, you can be confident that your component will remain in excellent shape.

If you need reliable components, TurboTurbos offers premium quality OEM and aftermarket Garrett turbo parts you can rely on. From actuators to solenoid valves, we have the parts to ensure your turbo performs at its best when you’re ready to reinstall it. Contact our team of specialists if you have any questions or can’t find what you’re looking for!