How to install boost controller on Garrett (air research) turbo - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Ian White · #1 01-11-2009, 05:35 PM

What is needed to install a boost controller on an air research turbo. Im running about 9 psi under full accel. at 4,000 RPM.

thx

awsrock · #2 01-11-2009, 06:03 PM

Ian,

All you need to do is cut the wastegate hose, and insert the boost controller in between. What kind of controller do you have? Be sure that the correct ends are on the correct sides of the hose.

I have one coming in the mail soon, so I'll be going through this process myself.

Ian White · #3 01-11-2009, 06:38 PM

I have not purchased one yet. I am just trying to accomplish the 12 PSI, versus the 9 PSI it will do now. Which one did you order? Any reputable vendors/products?

awsrock · #4 01-11-2009, 07:00 PM

I got mine off of ebay; I think he is one of the only ones that sells them in mass on there. Shipping is kinda slow, though. It's a ball and spring type controller, so it will keep the wastegate closed until whatever boost you set it to is met (since our wastegates tend to "creep" open before max boost.

You could also make your own for a bit cheaper, if you are up to it. Here's a link, see post #2
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=219585&highlight=603+power
It's a simple design, I just don't have the means necessary to be cutting things at the moment.

I haven't heard too much on here about the results after putting a controller in, other than people achieving the boost they were looking for. I hear that the ball and spring type can help reach max boost a bit quiker, though, since it keeps the wastegate closed. I'll just have to wait and see!

Actros617 · #5 01-11-2009, 08:49 PM

I would just set it at 11 or 10 So you have a safty net, i would suggest to install a EGT gauge too while your at it.

Ian White · #6 01-11-2009, 09:42 PM

I think I'll make my own, since I own a machine shop haha. Ok I dont think the increase of booste will need a egt gauge though, I'm speculating of course, but I doubt that that 617 diesel will even get to 1100 degrees. My 99 Dodge 2500 diesel will get to about 1350 degrees with the chip on level 5 at 38 PSI boost (thats when the Banks wastegate opens), and thats pulling my 35 Foot Weekend Warrior. Fully Loaded (gvw) trailer weighs roughly 12,100 lbs. its got three 4,000 lb axels.

Actros617 · #7 01-11-2009, 09:57 PM

But its just to be safe to have a EGT if your going to be at 12 psi or above, Ask ForceInduction He good at explaining about Exhaust Gas Temperature, Have you tired Ebay i got mine at Ebay for $19.99.

Ian White · #8 01-11-2009, 10:06 PM

Oh really, I'll have to look. Hell I got my boost gauge from our smalltown NAPA, its an autometer and it was only 15.99 in the clearence section. Ha I grabbed that up quick! Yes I will look for the EGT guage, the biggest problem is finding a good home for the guage.

rcounts · #9 01-11-2009, 10:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by awsrock

You could also make your own for a bit cheaper, if you are up to it. Here's a link, see post #2
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=219585&highlight=603+power
It's a simple design, I just don't have the means necessary to be cutting things at the moment.

That link goes to a page with a link to the build instructions, right? Unless I missed something, I'd say don't bother. The instructions say you can build one for about 12 bucks, but on eBay you can buy one WITH all the hoses, clamps, mounting bracket, etc. for 12 bucks.

Here's a link

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/R-TURBO-BOOST-CONTROLLER-MIATA-MX6-RX8-Mazda3-RX7-Supra_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ33742QQihZ006QQitemZ160308791715QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

bgkast · #10 01-11-2009, 10:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rcounts

That link goes to a page with a link to the build instructions, right? Unless I missed something, I'd say don't bother.

No, that site shows how to adjust the wastegate its self to allow higher boost with out the need for a boost controller. It is slightly more difficult, but probably the best (and cheapest) option.

Ian- you would be surprised at the EGT these cars can reach. I'm sure a 617 in good tune would hit 1100F on a long hard uphill pull. Where in SW WA are you? I am in Vancouver.

rcounts · #11 01-11-2009, 11:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bgkast

No, that site shows how to adjust the wastegate its self to allow higher boost with out the need for a boost controller. It is slightly more difficult, but probably the best (and cheapest) option

Well there is also a link on that page that takes you to another page of instructions on how to build a controller for $12.

And why would adjusting the wastegate be a better solution? The controller allows for easy fine tuning without having to disassemble the turbo and risk rupturing the wastegate actuator diaphragm. Also the controller prevents "creep" of the wastegate at lower pressures.

Seems that our definitions of "best" solution are quite different...

bgkast · #12 01-11-2009, 11:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rcounts

Well there is also a link on that page that takes you to another page of instructions on how to build a controller for $12.

And why would adjusitng the wastegate be a better solution? The controller allows for easy fine tuning without having to disassemble the turbo and risk rupturing the wastegate actuator diaphragm. Also the controller prevents "creep" of the wastegate at lower pressures.

Seems that our definitions of "best" solution are quite different...

Sorry, I thought you were referring to a link I posted in another one of the OP's threads. This link: http://www.serenitysys.com/MB/Service_Info/Turbo_Tweak/tweaking_the_mercedes_617_turbo_.htm

Adjusting the wastgate allows will allow you to get the boost back up to factory spec with out introducing another component that can possibly fail. Also I have had bad experience with the ebay boost controllers leaking on me.

Ian White · #13 01-12-2009, 12:15 AM

Really I would have never guessed on the EGT these 617's will run. bgkast - I am in Chehalis, Wa, which is about 94 miles south of Seattle and 89 miles north of Vanc/Portland. Wow small world isn't it?

rcounts · #14 01-12-2009, 12:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ian White

Really I would have never guessed on the EGT these 617's will run. bgkast - I am in Chehalis, Wa, which is about 94 miles south of Seattle and 89 miles north of Vanc/Portland. Wow small world isn't it?

I'm in Kent. Gonna' be working in Tumwater tomorrow...

Ian White · #15 01-12-2009, 12:39 AM

jeez, it funny how these things work out... three guys all from western washington within an hour or so from each other haha. Gotta love it! Rcounts, what business are you in?