Is it normal for the turbo to become red hot?

Yes, it is normal for a turbocharger to become very hot during operation due to the high temperatures of the exhaust gases passing through it. The turbo is designed to withstand these high temperatures, but if it becomes excessively hot or shows signs of damage, it could indicate an issue such as oil starvation or a malfunctioning cooling system. Regular maintenance and monitoring can help prevent overheating and ensure the turbo operates efficiently.