Aerovee Turbo Kit

[marsolgp]

Bruce,

I've had the MGL XF MAP RDAC since day one…. I think I always knew I'd add a Turbo… I tapped into the LH intake elbow on the head and used 1/8" NPT to AN -3 flare.

[MichaelFarley56]

Geary, how much of a gap do you have between your turbo housing and the firewall? Did you have to bend the exhaust manifold any so there was clearance? Judging by your pictures, it looks like you have sufficient room in between them, so I just thought I'd ask. Thank you!

[Bruce593SX]

Bruce,

I've had the MGL XF MAP RDAC since day one…. I think I always knew I'd add a Turbo… I tapped into the LH intake elbow on the head and used 1/8" NPT to AN -3 flare.

I have the old stratomaster flight 2 and E1, so I'm looking at an analog gauge instead of another $250 mgl gauge...

[MichaelFarley56]

Bruce,

I've had the MGL XF MAP RDAC since day one…. I think I always knew I'd add a Turbo… I tapped into the LH intake elbow on the head and used 1/8" NPT to AN -3 flare.

I have the old stratomaster flight 2 and E1, so I'm looking at an analog gauge instead of another $250 mgl gauge...

Aircraft Spruce sells some varying models of manifold pressure gauge (analog), including a Westach for around $68.00. You've got some options from them. Is that sort of what you have in mind?

[Bruce593SX]

Thanks mike, I went ahead and ordered that on last night... I was looking to maybe do an automotive gauge since that one is on back order for a few weeks, but since I just ordered my turbo kit, I don't think the delay will effect my progress...

[marsolgp]

Mike,

I had about 1/4" clearance between turbo and firewall. But then with the Turbo blanket goes on and it actually wedges between the turbo and FW. The blanket does come in contact with the FW. As far as exhaust, no, I did not have to bend it. That was about the only part of the exhaust system that DIDN'T need bending for fit.

Oh, and make sure you get the 0-50" MAP gauge and not the 0-30"….. remember, you're boosted now.

[Bruce593SX]

TURBO TIME!

I guess Sonex has the kits in stock now, I ordered my kit online around 4:30 Tuesday afternoon and ups tracking says it's already on the way and I'll have it next Wednesday!

[GWMotley]

Does anyone know which brand and model number of turbo is being used in this kit?

[marsolgp]

Not sure exactly what turbo model they use but I just ordered a new turbo blanket to fit a T25/T28.
Now to the reason for the new blanket and a heads up to all the folks installing the turbo….. watch for loose bolts and nuts in the exhaust system, the complete exhaust system.
I've just finished about 12 hours with the turbo and it's been pretty much trouble free. I had a small oil leak at the return line fitting and I've had to tighten exhaust bolts every couple hours. I never did retighten the down pipe bolts (the five bolts that hold the exhaust pipe that exits the turbo) cause I couldn't see them, covered by turbo blanket, and when I'd try move the exhaust pipe all 'seemed' secure. The nuts that secure the turbo to the exhaust system were also slightly loose on a couple checks.
Well, after the last flight, yesterday, I was removing the cowling and thought I noticed the exhaust pipe move…. sure as heck, it was very loose. I removed the turbo blanket and all 5 bolts were about to fall out. The blanket is trash, due to the leak. Direct exhaust gasses melted the weave layer of fiberglass and it pretty much just crumbled. Hence the new one on order.
I made a new gasket (original one is gone) with Fel-Pro #3009, installed longer bolts that I drilled the heads on and installed with SS split lock washers and safety wire. I went ahead and installed the same type lock washers on all exhaust system bolts…. Once the new blanket gets here I go fly again…. and keep a closer eye on those bolts and nuts.

[MichaelFarley56]

I appreciate the heads up Geary. That's good info to know.

I do believe you ordered the correct turbo blanket; this turbo is a T25 hybrid so you should be good.

Sorry to hear the exhaust bolts. On one hand I'm glad that's the only issue you've had, but at the same time I hope you can figure out a way to stop them from loosening up. Do you think lock washers is sufficient, or do you recommend drilling the heads for safety wire?

Please keep your updates coming and best of luck!