I got this t3 a while back and It needs new bearing. As far as I can tell the seals are good (no oil or oil sout on any part). First off it the a way to test the seals to be sure.

Also t3 bearing are only like 15.00. Is it alright to just replace the bearings. eventually I want to complete rehaul the turbo with a new center section, but I don't want to wait that long because I wont have that kinda cash till the end of the summer.

 

Well, id replace the compressor seal since you have it apart, and maybe the thrust bearing depending on how bad it is. Somtimes you can just bend the piston ring seal on the turbine out again and re use it. Other than that, i replaced only the bearings before, for a true hmt rebuild

 

Ya, might just do that. I just want the turbo to be fine for 3 months or so because I'm sick of the 14b and want to do a complete build when I have a little more funds.