Turbocharger Troubles

Editorial Staff

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 at 01:18 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Turbochargers were a common source of malfunctions across multiple aircraft types reported in these incidents.
Failures exhibited diverse symptoms, including oil leaks, seizures, internal damage, broken driveshafts, cracked components, and loose housings.
These incidents frequently resulted in critical in-flight issues like engine power loss and low oil pressure, often necessitating emergency or precautionary landings, with failures occurring at varying component ages.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Cessna 402B utililiner

Oil Leaks

On descent, the pilot noticed oil streaking back from top cowl louvers, then dropping oil pressure. Pilot shut down engine and feathered propeller, continuing to the nearby destination without issue. Examination revealed engine oil was bypassing the seals on the turbocharger (p/n 4066109025).

Part total time: 9.0 hours

Diamond DA40 Star

Seized Turbocharger

The airplane was in cruise flight when its engine began to lose power, which the student pilot could not restore. The pilot performed a precautionary landing in a dirt field, without damage or injuries. Examination found the turbocharger had seized.

Part total time: 516.0 hours

Diamond DA40 Star

Cracked Bearing Flange

During scheduled inspection, the turbocharger bearing flange at the turbine was found cracked in two places, causing exhaust gas to jet over the top of the turbocharger. Other failures have been found in our fleet as well. No cause known or recommendations at this time.

Part total time: 101.0 hours

Diamond DA42 Twin Star

Failed Turbocharger

Low oil pressure in right engine was observed, followed by oil odor in cabin and loss of engine power. Engine was shut down and ensuing emergency landing was successful without further issues. Inspection revealed the right engine’s turbocharger had failed internally, causing the oil loss.

Part total time: 601.0 hours

Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain

Driveshaft Failure

Pilot experienced a partial power loss and low oil pressure with the right engine. Engine was secured and airplane landed without further incident. Inspection revealed the turbocharger driveshaft was broken, and both turbine and compressor blades were damaged. The overhauled turbo was recently installed; mechanics verified the turbo was pre-oiled prior to return to service and no issues were reported post-installation.

Part total time: 87.9 hours

Piper PA-46R-350T Matrix

Loose Turbine Housing

During scheduled inspection, the right turbocharger’s housing was found loose, with significant play where it meets the center bearing housing. The housing is secured by bolts that keep housing from rotating when properly torqued. Check security of the turbine housings at each inspection.

Part total time: 1509.0 hours