Boosting only 7psi max, thinking tvsv is the culprit? Options

[malecrod]

Hi,
I have a boosting problem. I'm only boosting 7psi max. This all started with a leaking turbo to downpipe gasket ( looks like ebay type) that was making the car loud. So I took it out and replaced it with one I made DIY as a temporary one since the toyota one I ordered was taking a while to get.
Since the replacement I'm unable to boost more than 7psi max. Ok so I read a lot the last few days and thought: boost leak,gasket/ebay downpipe is making wastegate flapper stuck. Checked clamps, hoses no leaks anywhere. Finally, the toyota gasket came in, but before I installed it, I ground it down to match the OEM gasket(don't wanna have any reason for taking it down again). Installed everything back, but still can't boost past 7psi.
So next I unplugged the hose going to the tvsv and run the car, got it to 11psi and I could hear the turbo working hard so I didn't want to push it to overboost. I did not feel the car pulling timing on me.
Next, I plugged the wastegate actuator outlet to tvsv shut, went for a drive, all I got was 7psi! which is what it should be.
Now I'm suspecting either ECU is stuck in low boost mode or the TVSV is bad or could this still be boost leak?
I have the boost leak tester in the works.
I have checked my BPV for leaks and even took it out of the picture for simplicity sake still no luck.
I need all the help/input I can get.
Thanks.

[lagos]

1. Check the ecu for codes. Something like a blown knock sensor could cause these problems and would store a code (even if your dash light is not on)
2. make a boost leak tester and check for boost leaks.
3. Check the custom bracket that was made to relocate your waste gate actuator. It could very well be causing these problems.
4. install my tvsv led. This will tell you if the ecu is stuck in low boost mode or if its pulling timing.
http://celicatech.com/forums/showthread.ph...6985#post226985
5. Replace your plugs, wires, cap and rotor. The wires have a date stamped on them, If they are older then 2yrs, throw them in the trash and get a new oem set.
6. If all else fails do this....
http://s126.photobucket.com/albums/p117/no...nt=MOV00572.flv

This post has been edited by lagos: Apr 30, 2008 - 3:08 PM

[malecrod]

1. Check the ecu for codes. Something like a blown knock sensor could cause these problems and would store a code (even if your dash light is not on)
2. make a boost leak tester and check for boost leaks.
3. Check the custom bracket that was made to relocate your waste gate actuator. It could very well be causing these problems.
4. install my tvsv led. This will tell you if the ecu is stuck in low boost mode or if its pulling timing.
http://celicatech.com/forums/showthread.ph...6985#post226985
5. Replace your plugs, wires, cap and rotor. The wires have a date stamped on them, If they are older then 2yrs, throw them in the trash and get a new oem set.
6. If all else fails do this....
http://s126.photobucket.com/albums/p117/no...nt=MOV00572.flv

Thanks Art, that is a funny video! Can you explain briefly how the AFM can be doing this?

1. I forgot to mention it. I checked for codes before anything else and there was none.
2. I didn't feel like hunting for parts for this one, I live in a small town, and suspect I would end up not finding all parts needed, so I just ordered one.
3. I checked the bracket and actuator and everything is as it has always been, because my first instinct was that its an actuator problem but now I'm kinda not sure. I will check again.
4. I will look into that
5. I will go to toyota first thing tomorrow. These things will be about 2yrs soon.
6. funny video. I wonder if this could be the problem. I will take it out and inspect it.
Thanks, I will report as I complete each task.