Need Help with Potential Boost Leak...

[GsXtacY325]

Well recently my Gsx just doesn't seem to be pulling hard at all. i want to check for a boost leak, but i have a few newb questions first:

Could my blowoff valve still pop off (as loud) as it always has if i had a boost leak? [if yes, then why?]
Could my boost guage (aftermarket, not stock) still read the same PSI i have always been hitting with a boost leak? [if yes, then why?]
Also, how would i go about performing a boost leak test? what do i look for and how is it done properly?

That would kickass if anyone could help a fellow dsmer boost in delight once again. sorry for the newb questions, my "boost leak" could just be a mental game which is why i ask.

 

[steve]

Well recently my Gsx just doesn't seem to be pulling hard at all. i want to check for a boost leak, but i have a few newb questions first:

Could my blowoff valve still pop off (as loud) as it always has if i had a boost leak? [if yes, then why?]

Yes. look at the next answer and think about it.

Could my boost guage (aftermarket, not stock) still read the same PSI i have always been hitting with a boost leak? [if yes, then why?]

Yes, but your turbo is working much harder to maintain the pressure (if it can) and the ECU thinks a lot more air in running throught the engine than really is so you going to be pig rich.

Also, how would i go about performing a boost leak test? what do i look for and how is it done properly?

You make something to seal the intake neck on the turbo and then pressurize the intake to somewhere just above your max boost pressure. Seal off the MBC cause it will leak. Make sure the engine isn't at TDC or cylinder 4 will be an open path from the intake to exhaust.

Then go throught your engine bay looking for places that are hissing. Use soapy water to find bubbles if you can't locate the sound. Read the 50 millon other posts on boost leak testing and you'll be all set.

Steve