Is this the wastegate? How to clean?

[invisik]

Hey all,

Some great threads recently about lack of boost!! This spured me to check my wastegate as I'm experiencing a little less bost then usual lately. I did some searches and still have two basic questions... Sorry, I've never looked into a turbocharged car this deeply before.

Please view the attached picture. Is the gold thing under the red dot the wastegate? I believe the gold thing above the dot is the EGR unit.

My car is a 1992 300D 2.5 turbo.

Finally, if this is the part, how does one clean it? I lubed the ball and socket joints on the lever and blew into the vacuum hose and it's clear to the other end of it. Can't find an obvious way into the unit itself. Suggestions appreciated!

I used to see more accelleration at 2000 rpms and now I get the amount I'd expect later at 2400rpms. I suspect my wastegate might be releasing some boost. I also have major turbo lag. If I keep a solid pedal at 2400rpm, the mph will increase for about 20 miles per hour while the rpms stay constant. Kinda weird.

Thanks much!!

-m

PS: Love the new forum software with easier file attachments!!

PPS: My 0-60 is 13.8 seconds, just went out and tested it. 72 degree evening, low humidity, engine temp gauge at 80, full tank of #2 fuel.