boost

[87gnttop1]

how much boost does a stock 3.8 motor hold with tuning

 

[QUIP'6']

how much boost does a stock 3.8 motor hold with tuning

as much as you can put in without detonation. usually 14 to 18 psi on pump gas and 23 to 30+ with c-16 and or alky injection it all depends on your tuning ability you can blow a motor up with race gas if not tuned properly

 

[Nick Micale]

how much boost does a stock 3.8 motor hold with tuning

Back in the "day" when these cars were new, Buick engineers said the design limit of 3.8 turbo 1986-87 head gaskets is 22 psi.

With manufacturing tolerances and variables, and also age, this "limit" can change.

So why would anyone exceeding this threshold be surprised to blow/damage a head gasket no matter how good the tune, or race gas, or achy?

So in engineering speak, if you exceed this limit, expect it to give up eventually.

Owners that have blown head gaskets a 24 psi or so say, NEVER saw or heard knock, but the mechanical limit was exceeded. :smile:

Credibility of this comes from many HUNDREDS of blown turbo head gaskets I have replaced since 1987, stock and otherwise.!

Many replies here may tell you how they have exceeded this limit, but remember your key word - STOCK. :smile:

 

[buickfan777]

1987 buick grand national for sale $10,000

EXCELLENT CONDITION, ONE HARD TO FIND LEGENDARY RIDE!
Well cared, original good paint and rims,perfect body, no dent, runs well, color:black

Features:
3.8 turbo
Boost/knock gauge
temperature gauge
oil gauge
56900 miles+- per odometer
power window/door
Please contact808) 927-0737 for more info
email:hawaii002010@gmail.com

Note: Car is in Honolulu, Hawaii