Pressure release noise, now white smoke

[April_ethereal]

Hi everyone, I tried searching but couldn't find an answer for my question. I'm new to Delicas and diesels, so maybe this is normal. Please humor me if so!

I just picked up a '95 L400 series 1, and was driving up a highway pass yesterday. On 3 occasions, when the van shifted up to keep up speed (about 80km/hr), I heard a strange noise. It sounded like air pressure being released. The third was followed by a loud pop. I was able to continue driving for another 3 hours, with no issues. Engine heat was consistently below the middle mark of hot and cold.

This morning I went to move the van...started fine. I parked it (turbo timer stays on for a minute), then while idling it began to feel rough, sputtering a little and a bunch of white smoke began to pour out of the tail pipe. Hope you guys can help me understand what's going on!

[negativentropy]

sounds like a seized turbo wastegate. the turbo opens a flap when it produces too much boost. if this flap seizes (happened to me) then there is a flap on the valve cover which opens, and sounds awful.

there is a lever on the right , low side of the turbo (when facing the steering wheel) - you should be able to open a close this by hand (car not running). If you cannot open it, spray a penetrant oil around the area where the lever hinges the wastegate. give it a few minutes, then try to wiggle the whole thing loose. worked for me.

[Big-Bird]

x2 for the faulty valve. If its broken or severly sticky and just won't move then you can call the JDM parts suppliers in BC and get a replacement sent in a few days.

Rising Sun Imports (New Westminster , BC)
Maximum Overdrive (Richmond, BC)
Amazing Auto (Richmond, BC)
CVI Automotive (Richmond, BC)
Commbs Country Auto (Vancouver Island)
Rocky Mountain Imports (Vancouver Island)
Right Drive (Toronto, ON)

[April_ethereal]

Thanks, guys! Upon closer look, the lever does appear to be rusted and seized. Time for some deep creep and tlc