[jblackburn]

You make sure the check valve is installed correctly? Sounds like it might be backwards.

Reach out to Andrei if you're having trouble with the kit - he will probably know immediately what's going on.

@XtremeRevolution

 

[jblackburn]

Is he even still on this site?

Not sure. If you don't hear anything, I'll reach out to him directly.

He has listed a phone number and email on cruzekits.com though.

 

[jblackburn]

Have you run a compression test? Any specific plug coated with oil?

The 1.4T engines are somewhat known for cracking pistons, and this may well be one of the signs.

 

[jblackburn]

Investigated everything again post new turbo install. The PCV is not pulling oil, just lots of condensation. Using a bore scope/camera, cylinder 1 is wet with oil while the others are pretty dry, albeit carbon built up. I can't see any physical crack in the top of the piston, but doesn't mean they aren't covered by carbon. There is also oil sitting along the edge between the piston and cylinder wall. The cylinder wall still looks perfectly clean, cross hatching and all, no scratches or marred areas.

Not really sure how or where the piston failed, but looks like I'll be replacing a piston and rings soon.

The usual failure is actually between the ringlands - not all that uncommon on turbo cars (esp Subaru). The top of the piston will usually appear undamaged. The compression numbers still look better than I'd expect, but that one does appear to be down a little vs the other cylinders.

Quick search of a Subaru one, although there are pictures of Cruze pistons around here somewhere I'm sure. It's MORE common on the 16-17 Gen 2 1.4T, but the Gen 1's definitely saw it happen occasionally.