Saleen owners AND/OR PD blower type owners

[BCB00GT]

I went and drove a 2003 Saleen S/C vert today. Couple of issue.

1. Front bumper cover had some "spider web" cracks. I thought I remember reading that was typical of Saleen front bumper. Looking for feedback from Saleen owners OR those with Saleen bumper covers and trim pieces.

2. Didn't think the car was that quick. Actually, I didn't think the s/c was providing the boost to the engine. The boost guage never really got off 0. I dropped to 2nd gear getting on to the interstate and no boost. Car pulled like a nonboosted car. Could a wastegate type valve be stuck open or the car have a "valet" mode? Looking for feedback from owners of root or twin screw blowers that have boost gauges.

Thanks
Bryan

 

[jstreet0204]

boost guage should have kicked up quickly. The do have a vacuum operated bypass that could be stuck. Even if the boost guage didn't work you should have heard the blower. It is very recognizable.

 

[BCB00GT]

I heard SOME "whining", not much, but no real hard acceleration. The last boosted car I drove was a 98GT running the FRPP at 9#s (and 3.73s) and the thing fish-tailed down the street when hitting 2nd hard. Hell, my buddys 5.0 with 370HP NA has a hard time holding 2nd. I really think the boost wasn't making it into the engine. Is that possible??

 

[jstreet0204]

It may be that the bypass isn't closing all the way. Best way to tell is watch it while revving the engine. You should see the plunger moving out when the throttle is opened all the way up.

 

[saleen556]

The spider web cracking is unfortunatley normal for a saleen.The bypass was probably stuck open or you would no that it was making boost.Even stock they will toss you back in your seat in first and second gear.

 

[BCB00GT]

Where is the bypass located?

Also, is it possible to have a valet setting?