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Old Aug 18, 2007 | 11:52 AM
  #1  
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Default Superchargers

I'm seeing Vortech "Universal" Superchargers that will go on the Chevy Small block 350's for around $2,800 all day long, seems to be plenty available at that price.

The thing is, I've never seen anyone do a Supercharger on a C3 before - not saying it's rare or anything, just among C3 owners I've personally met no one has done it. So I turn to you

Anyone done this? Do you think it was worth the money? I would be putting this on the 1980 L-82. The descriptions are kind of vague in the auction, "100 to 400 HP" ... that's a pretty big gap there, I suppose that's because it's a "Universal" supercharger and they can't give an exact number without knowing what you're going to put it on, but I'd still like to know.

So here are my questions for anyone who has done this or know someone who has done it:

1. Are Vortech's really a "put it on and forget it's there" type of thing like they say (aside from changing the oil)?
2. How much power can I reasonably expect to get out of it?
3. What other parts will I need to complete the installation?
4. Superchargers for other cars tend to be closer to $6000-$8000... why is this one so inexpensive?
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Old Aug 18, 2007 | 12:10 PM
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I have done a C-3, a '68, and other forum members have too. Not an easy installation. I prefer the ATI ProChager myself.
To answer your questions:
1: Generally, yes
2: Depending on the durability, compression ratio and parts selected, increases from 50% to 100% are easily realized.
3: Special carb. or fuel injection, brackets and tubing, intercooler (if used), many odds and ends. Look at my pic. below for visual.
4: $ = Quality and level of completeness, (kit). My basic ATI blower, (DISC) is around $2,800, but all the extra brackets, intercooler, surge valve, fuel system, plumbing, carb. hat etc. add up. Not to mention the engine build if you want 750-850 hp, like mine. G/L
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Old Aug 18, 2007 | 12:58 PM
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^^ sexy... :o
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Old Aug 18, 2007 | 02:55 PM
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Sweet
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Old Aug 18, 2007 | 04:28 PM
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Default magnacharger

I would definitely look at the Magnacharger . They seem to have the best power curve increase of any of the above mentioned superchargers. Check out their website. Also seems like the least painful install realizing that some form of aftermarket hood is going to have to used.
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Old Aug 18, 2007 | 06:32 PM
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If I was to do it again, I would give serious consideration to the Magnacharger.
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Old Aug 18, 2007 | 06:44 PM
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The only thing about the magnachargers is they run out of steam up top....Good boost off idle but a centrifugal will destroy a screw charger in the higher rpms....
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Old Aug 18, 2007 | 08:38 PM
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Originally Posted by ajrothm
The only thing about the magnachargers is they run out of steam up top....Good boost off idle but a centrifugal will destroy a screw charger in the higher rpms....
Agreed...that was the kicker for me. But the packaging is much easier/cleaner with the Maggy.
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Old Aug 18, 2007 | 09:55 PM
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Originally Posted by big_G
Agreed...that was the kicker for me. But the packaging is much easier/cleaner with the Maggy.
We put an A&A Corvette Pro-charger with the D1SC race head unit on a STOCK 02 Z06. Headers, 3" x pipe and stock cat back made 602rwhp with around 9lbs of boost. Thats with a big front mount intercooler(not the junk that comes with ATI's C5 kit).
A Magnacharger on the very same car would be lucky to break 530-540rwhp. We're expecting this one to run 10.50s@135 on a stock motor/tranny. Freakin insane on a daily driven car that still gets 15 mpgs.
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Old Aug 19, 2007 | 02:37 AM
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Originally Posted by ajrothm
A Magnacharger on the very same car would be lucky to break 530-540rwhp. We're expecting this one to run 10.50s@135 on a stock motor/tranny. Freakin insane on a daily driven car that still gets 15 mpgs.
That's because the Magnachargers are pretty small for that engine. Get a decent sized one and your hp will bump up accordingly...
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