3200GT back to life, not turbo, just a loose pipe

timkee330ci

New Member
Messages
122
So since I got the car in July this year, it had been underperforming. I always compared it to the Bimmer 330ci I used to drive. The 3200GT turbo kick and power was non-existent, there was a loud noise from the left engine bay above 2300-2400rpm. I took it to the dealer and the maserati team manager there told me it's a blown turbo, and quoted around 5000euro for a complete fix. Of course I didnt take his word because some guys here suggested it may not be that severe and David Askew also told me the turbo is very robust, given my car has only done less than 20000mile in these 13 years since production. I was also suggested that the Kayser valve maybe the culprit.

I took the car to a reputable indie which a friend of mine recommended. After several days of examination the mechanic removed the front bumper and examined all pipes. It was finally found that a pipe connecting the left turbo and the intercooler is loose. When the engine revs up the pipe retract to the turbo side causing massive leaks, which I believe is the main cause of underpowering.

So now problem identified, easily solved by tightening the hose mount and now the car is back to normal. It's the first time since i got the car that i feel the enormous power of this Italian beast.

I am very disappointed with the unprofessional attitude of the dealer. I will send them a complaint letter and make sure next time when I bring the car in for oil pressure light they dont quote me the price of a new engine.

By the way, the Kayser valve is intact, but brake is still weak. Maybe a good time for brake pad upgrade and new shoes?
Many thanks to everyone who answered my questions in the last two months while i was tracking down the problem! You guys are a walking knowledge base.
 

Felonious Crud

Administrator
Staff member
Messages
21,221
Great news. Getting an apparently expensive problem fixed easily is a joy - good work. Appalling diagnosis by the dealer, though. Dare I ask... which one?

At least you can enjoy the car properly now. Just watch for that turbo boost on corners and slippery roads - I'm told it'll throw you off the road too fast to catch it.
 

hodroyd

Member
Messages
14,150
Tim,
Glad you got her sorted and yet again a dealer is a let down, all too regular a story unfortunately. They are a brilliant car when on song, keep smiling...!!!
 

BennyD

Sea Urchin Pate
Messages
15,006
Glad it was an easy fix. Take it easy and get used to the new power levels, especially in the corners!
 

conaero

Forum Owner
Messages
34,640
That's great news, can you PM me who the dealer is, I have a fair idea that is one of two I am thinking about.
 

Parisien

Moderator
Messages
34,927
Great news Tim....the simple checks done throughly way better than all bells and whistles looking for something more obscure


P
 

rossyl

Member
Messages
3,312
That is excellent news

Matt - sounds like it is a non-UK dealer by the mentions of Euro.