View Full Version : Supercharge or not to Supercharge
With all the superchargers out there (Vortec, Magnussen, Whipple, Magna), how did you come to your decision? Was it price or performance or what?
With all the superchargers out there (Vortec, Magnussen, Whipple, Magna), how did you come to your decision? Was it price or performance or what?
With all the superchargers out there (Vortec, Magnussen, Whipple, Magna), how did you come to your decision? Was it price or performance or what?
It\'s a Dry Heat
07-02-2004, 01:43 AM
Sorry no sc.
HUMMUH
07-03-2004, 04:16 AM
First things first.
A Supercharger is a must if you want strong acceleration when passing or towing in an H2.
A Supercharger is a must if you want to maximize your fuel economy with efficient driving.
Which one is more of a preference. I chose Vortech because of the 3-year warranty and the fact that my dealer said it was the only one they had not had significant difficulties in getting the programming right.
I drove a Whipple Supercharged H2 and while less intrusive to the engine my dealer said they had to stop doing them because they just had too many issues with them and unhappy customers something they were not interested in creating.
Have had my Vortech SC for 10,000 miles, purrs like a kitten, getting 13.3 mpg now but tanks are checking out at 14+ so average is still rising since I had 10,000 miles on the H2 before we made the final decision with the dealer. The pick-up is awesome and while I don't get on it a lot - when I want to it really wakes you up. Cayenes are the only SUV's that can hang with me even uphill.
It costs money - but -
Life is relatively short. while alive -live!
HUMMUH,
I’ve heard that the Vortech (centrifugal) doesn’t have a linear response curve, which I understand it as you don’t see the power until around 2500 RPM. What have you experienced?
Now I'm told the Whipple supercharger has a linear response from idle to red zone. Do you know what your dealer meant by “unhappy customer” with the Whipple charger? Did it put too much stress on the pistons and rings?
I looked at all the different brands and choose the Magna Charger. Eaton is a quality company and you get a 3 year 36,000 mile warranty.
The power is awesome, instant response.
Klaus
07-03-2004, 02:34 PM
I think the Magnacharger would be my pick. Hey, if it's good enough for Lingenfelter...
Did someone say Lingenfelter?
Some threads to help you out:
http://elcova.com/groupee/forums?q=Y&a=tpc&s=2826088551&f=6706011751&m=831102481&p=1
Lots of great info in this thread:
http://elcova.com/groupee/forums?a=tpc&s=2826088551&f=6706011751&m=7516075243&r=2656086243#2656086243
Klaus
07-05-2004, 03:22 PM
Very nice, Ken!
I have been doing some research on superchargers, and believe the Magnacharger is the best kit.
However, Magnacharger’s 3/36 powertrain warranty appears pretty bad. Not only is it an additional $200, but you must have the supercharger installed by an ASE Certified mechanic/garage, or the warranty is void. Also, there appears to be so many loopholes in denying coverage (add headers or aftermarket exhaust and the powertrain warranty is voided) that the added powertrain warranty is practically worthless. Did I say that Magnacharger’s powertrain warranty is through a third party company? Also, the warranty appears to have a maximum payout of $3000, then you are on your own.
Since I am not willing to forgo my factory GM warranty (once the dealer sees your Magnacharger, your factory warranty is toast), I’m still looking. I have an email in to SMA to see what their warranty policy looks like.
I found a Magnacharger kit for a 2003 H2 at a great price ($4295 and free shipping), but I am not willing to lose my factory warranty after bolting it on! Just the thought of a bad transfer case makes me cringe!
I agree with Klaus--My Magnacharger is fantastic---the twin screw with an intercooler-- actually an aftercooler really performs and with the right tuning it runs smooth with great throttle response. More than one person has driven my H2 and find it hard to go back to the stock H2 HP--it is an entirely different vehicle.
However, I should not have bought the $200.00 warranty. ANY aftermarket performance part--any lift--any different tire size makes the warranty toast on the SC--and forget about engine or drivetrain issues with your dealer once it is on the H2.
Still-----I will SC my next H2 and roll the dice. It is worth the risk.
Cetrifugal SC's are gaining popularity due to their simplicity----I have seen no data to prove that they perform as well as the twin screw--intercooled. I have not yet done an analysis on the HP per dollar comparison since the cetrifugal chargers are quite a bit cheaper.
GM has at least endorsed the Magnacharger--forget any warranty claims with a centrifugals on the market. But...forget about the Magnacharger for GM claims as well.
Klaus
07-06-2004, 12:39 AM
H2mildandwild,
Did adding the supercharger stop the transmission from downshifting on every moderate grade while the cruise control is on?
I find the constant downshifts very annoying.
mbdougl
07-06-2004, 12:58 AM
The dealer I bought my H2 from is installing coolcharger system with full factory warranty
* Approximate rating - 450/horsepower 550/ ft.lbs.(@flywheel) torque vs. stock rating of 316/360!!!
http://www.dyno-proven.com/coolcharger.htm
http://www.nucar.com/inventory/details.aspx?vehicle_id=H40122
I never drove it because I was afraid I would want it on mine.
mbdougl
07-06-2004, 01:04 AM
Actually, when installed by an authorized dealer, they come complete with a supplemental warranty that “mirrors” the factory coverage. I am not sure what that does to the factory warranty??
Klaus:
I ran my H2 about 150 miles in PA two weeks ago--lots of long, long inclines. On cruise control, I did not have one downshift. It was a pleasure to drive because the SC makes power when needed and no downshift occured for the entire run.
Even when I increased speed from say 70-75 MPH using the cruise control button, no downshift occured.
I am sure if I increased speed dramatically--impossible on the PA turnpike, it would eventually find the downshift point.
After the install, I changed my shift setpoints and shift pressure for normal acceleration and also when you do a WOT tromp. Reprograming the PCM is recommended beyond the SC reprograming provided with the kit.
NOTE:
I also have true dual exhaust, headers, high flow cats, air intake and a better MAF sensor---these may have helped with the "no downshift" on hills due to extra power but I am sure that a stock install will provide the same result you are looking for.
Klaus
07-06-2004, 10:45 AM
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by H2mildandwild:
After the install, I changed my shift setpoints and shift pressure for normal acceleration and also when you do a WOT tromp. Reprograming the PCM is recommended. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
How are you programming? Are you using the programmer that came with the supercharger?
The SC comes with a Superchips programmer BUT only works for the SC reprogramming.
NOTE: The SC does not come with a boost guage. I spoke with the Magneson guys--it keeps the price of the kit down, plus there are so many guage choices.
It is important if you are going to go beyond the "stock" Magneson tune to have a boost guage, a fuel pressure guage and an exhaust temp guage. I also have an air to fuel ratio guage coming. Tuning a SC beyong its stock tune requires caution. Too high of a boost without proper fuel injectors, fuel flow, and other goodies can cause early detonation on pump gas and damage your engine. The stock set up with a boost guage is all that is needed unless you plan to race your H2. Mine is going down the 1/4 mile this month----want to see 14 second times and them edge toward high 13's with a stock bottom end engine.
I bought a Diablo "predator" from www.diablosport.com (http://www.diablosport.com) for all other programming. I could have sent the Superchips back for them to do a specific tune for about $150.00.
The Diablo lets me adjust the tune myself. I also changed tire size for my 38's, etc. More on this later---must go make some money to pay for my toys.
M&W, if you have an issue with fuel fuel supply you can use the Kenne Bell Boost-a-Pump. While mine was set by LPE, they are adjustable to accomadate the larger injectors without replacing the stock pump.
Auto Meter Boost Gauge:
Klaus
07-06-2004, 02:18 PM
Well, I pulled the trigger and ordered a Magnacharger today.http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif
My dealer said he would install it for $600, which is a fair price. That gets me the ASE Certification, so I can buy the powertrain warranty, for whatever it might be worth.
KenP, what size gauge did you get and where did you get the housing for the gauge. I've been looking for a clean method of installing a boost gauge and yours is the best I have seen.
Thanks for the input.
Kirk
Klaus, Congrats. I can't wait to hear what you have to say about it.
Kirk, It is 2 1/8". It looks best from a distance as the fit around it is not very good. LPE is not using that one anymore. Here is a pick and link to what they are using. That is an entirely new molded piece. I like the look better, but not the location.
http://www.lingenfelter.com/lingenfelter/product.asp?pf%5Fid=581&dept%5Fid=125
Klaus
07-06-2004, 08:03 PM
Thanks, Ken.
It helps to be recovering from surgery and to be taking prescription narcotics before spending that kind of money. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif
LPE is pretty proud of that gauge! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif
No kidding... On both counts.
Klaus:
Congrats! $600 is a great price-----I am amazed it is that cheap. I install for about $950.00 including extra tuning and I am considered on the low side.
KenP--thanks, I already have an aux fuel pump---I just like to read the guage when I race. It is an old school thing perhaps but I find it comforting.
If yours was installed by Lingenfelter, you have the right stuff for sure. I speak with them on occasion. Did you install their new MAF sensor and their twin fan set up? How about their 160 degree thermostat?
I, too pulled the trigger and scheduled a visit for my 2004 H2 with Lingenfelter. I do have a question - they state that most people choose the polished supercharger, is this a necessary option? Is the polished look worth $1000? I do not plan to attend the car show circuit. How about the Yank torque convertor, same price installed? I do plan having them install the supercharger, Borla headers, and Brembo cross drilled rotors, stainless brake lines & performance pads.
Klaus
07-06-2004, 10:15 PM
RDKJ,
I ordered the satin finish. The finish is for your visual benefit. Buy what looks good to you.
I'm only getting the supercharger installed, as I don't plan to drag race any F-150 Lightnings. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif
http://elcova.com/groupee/forums?a=tpc&s=2826088551&f=6706011751&m=623100603&r=623100603#623100603
LPE does a great job. Unfortunately, they are a little too rich for my blood. Maybe one day...
The polished charger is for looks and DOES NOT LOOK like the pics on the internet. Magenson only polishes the blower section now, not the intake manifold--that is powdercoated grey.
I got that surprise when I openned the box. I called Magneson--they only produced the first 1000 with polished blowers and manifolds. After that, they only polished the blower.
Since I have a show truck, I took the SC apart and had the manifold polished to match the blower. That act alone voided the warranty. My $200.00 usless warranty was really usless.
So....get the satin unless you really want your engine compartment to look good......besides the SC makes your compartment look really bad ass, polished or not.
CRUZMISL
07-07-2004, 12:57 AM
Who has the best installed price in the great lakes area? I did some shopping and they all seem to be around $7k. That's a ton of scratch.
I want one big time. People know the H2 is slow so they take advantage of us on the highway. It would be really nice to have one and watch the look on their stupid faces.
I do not have the 160 t-stat. I have thought about it and may do it soon. No on the MAF, but I have a call in to Tim.
I do have the twin 15" Flex-A-Lite fans. Picked them up from a friend that owned a speed shop. I was going to do the install myself but had to send the truck back to them awhile back, so they took care of it. I had them install an aux. temp control switch in the cabin. That fan really messes up other H2 owners because it keeps running after the truck is turned off. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif
Notice the splice in the top radiator hose. That is for the fan's temp control switch.
Interior switch is located where many folks put their light switch.
Klaus, thanks. That video cracks me up everytime I see it. I have no illusions about it, but it still makes me laugh. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif
KenP.
Thanks for the info---I have a flex-a-lite on order----not using the stock fan system is supposed to improve throttle response and add a few horses. I am more concerned with low end throttle response.
Klaus
07-08-2004, 02:33 AM
Here's a Popular Hot Rodding article on the Magnacharger:
http://www.popularhotrodding.com/tech/MagnaCharger/
Click on the small pictures for larger images. This article has some nice pics of the internals of the Magnacharger.
Klaus
07-08-2004, 10:56 PM
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by CRUZMISL:
Who has the best installed price in the great lakes area? I did some shopping and they all seem to be around $7k. That's a ton of scratch.
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Check your private messages.
Suvs suck
07-10-2004, 02:13 AM
Supercharged H2 ideas (http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=1485005)
Klaus
07-10-2004, 02:23 AM
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Suvs suck:
http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=1485005 <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Don't waste your time. Just another group of losers.
Suvs suck
07-10-2004, 02:30 AM
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Klaus:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Suvs suck:
http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=1485005 <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Don't waste your time. Just another group of losers. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Yea http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif except its THE LARGEST AUTOMOTIVE FOURM ONLINE, and last I checked, its the 7th largest fourm on the entire web
You are still a loser *******. Of course, that is an ugly truck.
Klaus
07-10-2004, 02:37 AM
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Suvs suck:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Klaus:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Suvs suck:
http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=1485005 <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Don't waste your time. Just another group of losers. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Yea http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif except its THE LARGEST AUTOMOTIVE FOURM ONLINE, and last I checked, its the 7th largest fourm on the entire web <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
So what? That only proves that there is a large gathering of FRUITS and NUTS on one forum, if you are representative of the membership there.
Kevin B
07-10-2004, 02:38 AM
Suvs suck,
I saw a VW bug (slightly modified) run a high 9 second pass at Carlsbad Drag Strip http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif. Funny, none of the muscle cars wanted to play after that http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif.
Please stick around, maybe the SUV thing will win you over
Suvs suck
07-10-2004, 02:45 AM
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by N2ITNSD:
Suvs suck,
I saw a VW bug (slightly modified) run a high 9 second pass at Carlsbad Drag Strip http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif. Funny, none of the muscle cars wanted to play after that http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif.
Please stick around, maybe the SUV thing will win you over <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
wow, my first nice comment. Ok, il stop being a dick now. It was childish of myself to post replys like that anyways
Klaus
07-19-2004, 06:58 PM
Well folks, wish me luck. I just scheduled my Magnacharger install for this Friday, 23 July. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif
Great Klaus:
By next week you will have an entirely different vehicle----Do you have a local dragstrip near by to do a 1/4 mile run? It is the only way I have found to really find out if it is making good power. Dynos are fine but the 1/8 and 1/4 mile numbers tell all. If and when you go, just drive it as from a stop light at full throttle.
I broke my front driveshaft on my first run by applying the brake and ramping up RPMs to 2000 at the start line----good thing though, the front driveshaft was defective and would have broken off road as well-like when pulling up a steep incline.
H2 Passion
11-27-2004, 06:44 AM
Hi,
i can see 3 main types: Vortec, Whipple and Magma.
Vortec: Increase your horsepower from 316 to 436 and torque from 360 lb./ft. to 465 lb./ft
vortec website (http://www.vortechsuperchargers.com/products/yourcar/04_h2.html)
Magna: 63-125% more horsepower (from 2,000 rpm to 6,000 rpm) what about the torque?
Magna SC (http://www.magnacharger.com/gmhummerh2.htm)
and the Whipple: Up to 50% horsepower increase
Up to 50% torque increase throughout entire RPM range. Whipple SC (http://www.whipplesuperchargers.com/product.asp?ProdID=1145)
Which one do you advise me to buy and why??
i want it for outside US.
Regards
Elie
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