Rb20 Boost Issue

[WRO]

Hey guys so I'm having some sort of boosting issue with my 32 RB20.

Setup is

RB20 - 71 000 km

stock turbo

3 inch turbo back exhaust

Turbosmart Dual stage boost controller - apparently set to 12psi

Unknown aftermarket brand side mount intercooler

Apexi Pod filter

Aftermarket boost gauge setup behind steering wheel

Apparently stock BOV plumbed back - The induction noise is pretty loud and so is the flutter so not sure, but could just be because of the Pod ?

Ok so problem started last few days, first I noticed the boost gauge seemed to give off some odd readings (going right down to -30psi on deceleration, idling around -20psi then spiking up to 15-16psi on WOT).

Then yesterday I heard a strange induction sound on acceleration.

Pretty much car doesn't sound like its building boost smoothly, induction noise is very choppy especially WOT, best way I could describe it is, sounds similar to compressor surge.

Also it feels like its down on power a bit, especially past about 4000RPM.

SO just looking for some advice, what could be causing this? Could it be a boost leak somewhere in the system and where should I start looking and what am I looking for?

First turbo so advice appreciated thanks

*UPDATE* Just got car up on ramps, theres a stick wedged in between some of the fins of the intercooler not the whole way through but yea probably could be leaking, would this be causing all the issues?

Edited August 7, 2013 by WRO

[Missileman]

so take the ic out and pressure test it

[Kane_R32]

stock turbo + 15-16psi is never going to end well..