LWN Vane Tuning for Garrett Powermax

Hi,

I’m trying to resolve a harsh vane flutter on a 2016 2.8L Duramax. Truck has an exhaust, intercooler, the PowerMax turbo.

Was previously tuned but this issue persists. Have capped max boost to stay in range for the MAP sensor (need to find an upgrade), tried two sets of PID values, checked boost & flow against the turbo chart to eliminate surge as a cause.

Issue is most obvious when accelerating at ~80% throttle in 2nd or 3rd gear. Cutting throttle reduces the issue.

Any tips to diagnose and calibrate?

Robert,

I hate to be the bearer of bad news but this is a pretty common issue with the Powermax turbo. The 2.8L Dmax was a one of our longest turbo development projects precisely because of it's innate tendency to surge with larger compressor wheels. We went through nearly a dozen revisions before landing on the final DT44. I'll get off my soapbox now.

Really the only way to limit the flutter or surge is to pull desired boost down (exactly the opposite of the reason you installed the turbo in the first place, I know). The boost can be ramped back in as RPM climbs and you'll have to find the tolerance of the engine at different operating RPM/Load conditions.

You can also try raising your part throttle shifts keep the engine out of the 'flutter areas'. Your fuel mileage will likey suffer with this approach.

Nick

Thanks Nick. Unfortunately I found the DT44 after I had already installed the Garrett.

I’ll do some more testing as you suggest before committing to another turbo change ($)

I feel for you man, tuning around this issue can be a real PITA. I've got many hours at it on this platform. If you want to do a before after product review on one of the Facbook groups showing your difficulties (between the Powermax and DT44) I'd be happy to work a significant deal with you. 815-568-7920 (Ask for Chris Ehmke in sales ext 2121 or cehmke@duramaxtuner.com and tell him I sent you).

Nick

Thanks Nick, I’ll reach out to Chris. I’ve done all I can with PowerMax so it would be interesting to do a back to back.