broken boost solenoid- replace with aftermarket?

[robk46]

I just figured out my low boost condition on my 86 GN. It's the boost solenoid. I know GM doesn't make these anymore, what do you guys run on your cars? This car is almost completely stock so I'm not looking for a race only type of setup.

 

[SVORay]

It seems to me someone was still selling these but I can't recall who? Anyhow, I think most people opt for something like an RJC boost controller.

 

[vacuum 6]

It seems to me someone was still selling these but I can't recall who? Anyhow, I think most people opt for something like an RJC boost controller.

I was me but I sold them. Go with the RJC controller and never look back.

 

[SVORay]

My car came with an RJC unit and I haven't had any issues with it. You just set the boost and forget about it.

 

[RatFink]

I think Poston has the stock Solenoid. It's a reproduction. I've found original in box units on the internet though. Forget where, however they wanted over $100

 

[salvageV6]

The factory boost solenoid rarely goes bad, failure modes are open coils, rarely a shorted one, and of course physical damage ie. broken off ports.

How did you determine the solenoid was the problem?

I'd look to Bweavy at G body parts for a used one since they are so durable.

Not understanding the stock boost control system is what causes most "problems".

The hoses, restrictor Y, and the wastegate actuator arm length, and turbo hole/puck alignment are the greastest causes of boost control problems, especially on a stocker.

I would not be too concerned about buying a good used stock part for your mostly stock car. Give Brian a call or email he should have one.

If not scour the used parts section.

 

[robk46]

I took the hose off the solenoid, and the boost would climb as far as I was willing to let it (took it up to 18# briefly). When we replaced all the soft vacuum lines, I capped off the other end of the solenoid not knowing that it was supposed to be open to atmosphere. I think that broke it. Right now it only lets me boost to 11#.

 

[mikestertwo]

I took the hose off the solenoid, and the boost would climb as far as I was willing to let it (took it up to 18# briefly). When we replaced all the soft vacuum lines, I capped off the other end of the solenoid not knowing that it was supposed to be open to atmosphere. I think that broke it. Right now it only lets me boost to 11#.

11# means the solenoid is not opening or the vent is clogged. Could be a bad solenoid, an electrical problem, or it's not plumbed right. Capping off the vent port on the solenoid will not hurt anything. You did remove the cap didn't you?

 

[robk46]

I did take the cap off. The vacuum lines are installed correctly, and there's voltage getting to the solenoid. The solenoid works, but I think the mechanical part is stuck closed. I drilled a very small hole in it and I can get the boost to spike to 15 and stay steady at 14. I'm going to find another stocker or buy a Qboost.