e46 320d turbo problem

[kullu]

Hi guys I own a 320d e46 its got 200 000 kms on the clock now,
I recently heard a funny noise on it, about 2500rpm to 2700rpm then the noise disappear!
could it be the turbo? It does not really smoke and the power still feels all right!
What turbo can be used to replace mine? I would like to go a bit bigger if possible!

 

[P1000]

The noise could be the turbo, it could also be a leak in the intake somewhere. Replace the crankcase breather as a preventative measure in any event, since it is probably the leading cause for turbo failures in these cars.

I would not try to make more power out of that engine, BMW already derated it a lot for the hotter conditions in our country, and it is not a very reliable basis to start from.

You can get a turbo, I believe it is a garret GT1749V, from engine parts for about R9500 new. I really suggest you go with a new one, since the VNT can cause trouble if the re builder touched it. Also, slapping on a bigger turbo will give you endless troubles since it is a VNT (and should prove difficult to map if you remap), you can get quite a bit more power out of the standard turbo with only a decat and remap, but I would not do that on a 320d...