Originally Posted by
Mrmiata
So you really think they should have been using stainless steel or aluminum for prototype work? I'll wait and yell fowl ..(Thanksgiving humor.. not a typo)..when they declare the kit done and it has steel pipes.
This is where I got the info from that raises my concern: forum.miata.net
these are excerpts:
I bought a turbo kit a few years ago. For a few different reasons I am only just now getting around to actually installing it. I have noticed that a few of the intercooler plumbing tubes (welded steel tubes) have developed a coating of surface rust inside them where they are not powdercoated. They haven't been exposed to direct moisture of course, it is mainly superficial rust.
But, I am a little concerned about little bits of oxidation breaking off and getting pulled into the intake. What is the best course of action for this? I have to assume that even in normal use they would get some corrosion built up from the humidity in the intake air. Is this not a big deal? I have to assume that having them powdercoated inside would lead to even bigger problems when it flaked off, so what is the right answer here? Just sand the corrosion out inside and install them?
"I doubt there is any form of paint or coating particles that could damage the engine. Even chrome plating would burn up and dissappear.
Some of these particles could cause corrosion to the turbo compressor wheel. I'd urge your attention be focused on tubes into the turbo.
Good craftsmanship and pride in a nice job should guide your efforts, but don't worry about the motor, it will be okay."
Corky
"I would expect some small particles to get through an IC. But, unless the particles are silicon, or similar in nature, the junk will burn up and blow on through.
Racing days moons ago, we virtually always found scratches in the intake from foreign particles. Very often, small dents in pistons and heads from rocks, none of which ever damaged the sealing of the chamber. It was startling, indeed, to discover the amount of crap an engine can ingest and not be hurt.
Now, after all that, it still remains best that nothing goes thru the motor but air and fuel, and maybe some water vapor. "
Corky
So as you can see, I am amazed that our little pistons and rings have not just burned up and blown on through.