what are some signs of a blow turbo?

things to look for with/without taking off the downpipe?

smell?

need some info.

If seals are blown you will burn oil and see smoke out of the tailpipe

If it's seized or the turbine is damaged you will not make target boost - borrow a boost gauge if you don't have one (or get Tactrix/ecuExplorer and log it)

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UkNuck If seals are blown you will burn oil and see smoke out of the tailpipe

Only when you start the car? Or will it smoke constantly out of the tail pipe?

In most cases it will smoke constantly, but if it is only doing it at startup it may be a preliminary sign of a downhill process.

i get smoke every now and then when idling
stinks too

puffs of darker smoke

are those signs too or am i running too rich (when idling)

Dark smoke is usually a rich condition, smoke with a blueish tint is oil.