Vortech V3 Oil Slinger
 

Ever since I bought this second-hand V3 (being assured it was recently rebuilt, my fault for not insisting on a receipt I guess) it's had an odd grinding noise. Today, I pulled it apart to check bearings thinking they were the caused and found my Oil Slinger had caught on something, dislodged and crumpled.

Miraculously it seems my bearings are completely unaffected and produce absolutely zero noise.

Question is, how crucial is this Oil Slinger, and could I run without one for a while? I've technically been running without one now for a while and aside from the noise haven't had an issue.

I'm not an expert but I'd think it would be important. I'd be more worried about figuring out what it got caught on that caused that to happen though.

I would think to count your blessings if you SC is still working properly bar the oil slinger and get it fixed before using it again in case you really do wreck it completely. Don't risk it is what I think. I would love to know how how/what happened. :ugh2:

Don't know how well the upper bearings would be with out it, though like you said you've technically been running without it anyhow. Don't think you'll get a firm answer other than replace it and don't take the chance. You'd probably be ok as long as you're right up on fluid, but there are no guarantees that's for sure. You're definitely risking your bearings without it especially at high rpms. Beyond that who could say.

I'd say call Vortech but they are just going to tell you no, and send it to them.

Best advice don't chance it. Realistic advice? That's a tough one. But is a $50 slinger worth risking a $2500 blower? V3 parts are common on eBay. That's probably the quickest way to get your hands on one. But Australia....

You've still got a lot of metal left to sling oil around. The bearings look like they are in good shape. I'd be more worried about part of the slinger breaking off. I'd baby it until you replace the slinger but, IMNSHO, it's drivable.

Edit: I wouldn't drive it like that but it looks like your are getting plenty of oil to the bearings, so, if it's your only means of transportation...