It may be time for a new post, but here is new info I just found today: It seems that the turbo is producing constant boost, even at idle. I started it today a few times and let it run, which it would do at 5k-6k rpm's. Eventually, the boost hose blew of at the turbo and it starting running at a much more plesant 1500-2000 rpm's. If I covered the boost hose with my hand, it would idle perfect at <1000 rpm's. Also, the boost gauge (factory) is reading a constant 7psi.

I guess the next step would be to see if the waste gate and boost controler are working and double check the vacuum hose routing. Any other idea's?

 

Are you talking abt the bov return hose? Can you post some pics up?

 

The hose that blew off is right at the turbo, and I believe it goes to the intercooler. Here is a pic I found on the internet (not from my car, and a good thing too. Look at the size of that radiator hose!). The hose that blew off is circled in yellow. I usually get home when it's dark, any pics would of couse be dark.

There is a constant flow of air coming from the turbo that would go into this hose, and of course a strong vacuum coming from the hose itself. I apologize for sounding like an idiot, but this is my first turbo car.


[IMG]local://upfiles/14042/8A117367E3984542B9EDBDD5485AC14B.jpg[/IMG]

 

Is the clamp loose? Do a boost leak test and see if you have any leaks?

 

How do you perform a boost leak test? Any special tools needed?

 

Check out www.vfaq.com and look under the intake section, they show you how to make a leak tester.

 

So, here is what I've found out in the last couple weeks: The BOV vacuum hose was not hooked up properly. I fixed that and the vacuum leak at the Thermal vacuum switch at the thermostat housing. I pulled the plugs and they were fuel fowled, and not sparking (a test plug would spark however). Replaced the plugs and it fired up, and againtheidle was at 6,000prm's and showing about 10-11 psi boost on the gauge. I shut her down, and pulled the new plugs and they too were fuel fowled. The exhaust smells extremely rich and very smokey. The thottle plate is completely closed and looks fairly clean. And since the new plugs are fowled again, it will not start now (at least yesterday when I was messing around with it). Any other idea's?

Also, I just checked that link provided, but have not made the leak tester yet. That could solve all my problems!

 

Well iI am not sure what would make your car idle at 6k, but if your plugs keep fouling out check the coolant temp sensor. When they go bad it'll give you a hard start and make your car run way rich.

 

Every CTS I've seen go bad, make the vehicle idle really, reallybad or not idle at all (and hard start and fowl plugs too). I guess it could go the other way though.

I am going to try the boost leak test. A hole in the intercooler or intake could cause these symtoms. Just need warmer weather! When I started it last week, I saw a puff of smoke (or liquid fuel or something)come from the #1 injector area just before it fired up( as it was cranking). I am thinking it might be a cracked intake manifold (or a loose bolt?) and the boost leak test will tell me if it is bad. Plus, it seems easy enough to do.