Mitsubishi Repair: how do you know when a turbo has gone bad?, eclipse gst, turbine wheel

Question
i have a problem with my 96 eclipse gst.  latley is has been running like shit.  when i press the gas down the engine kinda stays at the rpm(or rises very slow) although the turbo gauge shows boost.  then if i depress the gas and press it again, usaully i will feel the boost.  all i have is a factory turbo. i dont think its a leak because i dont hear any whistle or noise coming out.  and if it was wouldnt it happen every time i push the gas down....just not occaisionaly.  like i said sometimes it will run good, other times like shit.    is it the turbo?  how do you know when a turbo has gone bad?   if you have any knowledge about this please email me back.  
thanks
justin

Answer
Justin,
A quick test for your turbo is to see if the turbine is moving freely.  First, wait until your engine is cold.  Then pulled the turbo inlet tube that goes from your air filter to your turbo.  Then, you can fit a couple fingers into the turbo inlet and you should be able to feel the turbine wheel and fins.  You should be able to spin it freely with very little effort.  It also should not wobble at all.  If you can wiggle it, and not just spin it, that indicates your turbo is ready to give out.

Your turbo gauge is a little better than completely useless.  I had a completely seized turbo once, and the gauge still moved around.  Though you can't hear any noises, still check all your hoses and connections.  Another cause of power loss in a turbo car is a dirty intercooler.  Breather hoses are used to vent positive pressure out of the engine.  To meet environmental standards, that ventilation system is routed back into your intake system to be discharged "cleanly".  Unfortunately, your intercooler is the lowest part of your intake system, and that's where the oily air collects.  You can easily pull the intercooler and clean it out.  If you decide to clean it, use 90% rubbing alcohol, or if you're safe, use gasoline.  That may help.

If you're routine with your oil and coolant changes, your turbo should last a good 100,000+ miles.  But check those other items before replacing your turbo.  It may be as simple as a loose hose clamp.
Good luck!