Just an update...It's been a while but now that I have it all setup i'm getting no boost. I was having a problem with the return line leaking as well as no boost a few days ago. It dawned on me that the int. wastegate flapper wasn't shut. I welded that up and fabbed up a new oil line. Great no leaks. I figured i'd be done. I took it for a spin, not hard, it went up to about 5psi and felt great but sounded weird. Did it a few times and now im back to 0psi at WOT. I'm running out of ideas. It does have a minimal amount of side/side and in/out play.(guy I bought it from said it was rebuilt?) It spins freely by hand, spins at idle, but I don't hear it spool up during acceleration. Something's fucked up with this turbo. God dammit. /rant

 

sounds like a leak in the exhaust before the turbo

 

especially on a borg, some lateral shaft play is ok to some extent if the turbo was used before. Doesn't mean it's in bad working condition BUT if it has in and out shaft play, Something definitely went wrong with this turbo and it needs to have the thrust system replaced before more damage occur. In this condition, it's normal that the turbo is making weird noises and that you are experiencing boosting problems.
Borg shafts and wheels are kind of rare and pricey. unlike garretts, once they are worn out, the most economic way out is to find another gm 6.5 turbo that's rebuildable.

 

Updated..see first post..