So I think I want a turbo...

[frank_the_tank]

I have lots of questions about getting a turbo, and whether or not it's cheaper and more efficient and what-not. I have a 2000 Firebird with a 3.8L 3800 Series II motor.

Where can I find a turbo that will fit my car, and can I just buy all the plumbing and such and have some shop install it? Would it be cheaper to get the custom turbo kit? Are there any cheaper superchargers than the nearly $4000 powerdyne that would fit my car?

Thanks in advance for all the help and I'm really sorry if these questions are answered in other places on this site.

[Shirl]

I think that when all is said and done, you'll pay around $4,000 whether it's a supercharger or a turbo by the time you get all of the necessary parts, gauges, fuel upgrades ect. It may even end up being more. Also, try a search, there are MANY threads on kits that people recommend. Some people have even fabricated their own. Most of the kits whether supercharger or turbo are running typical ET's of each other overall. I think it basically comes down to the best fit and overall quality of the kit.

[Darkshadow188]

If you're going to go with a Supercharger, look for the ATI Procharger. You might have to fab a few pices for it to work. You'll also need to look for braket specs( I believe someone on here already fabbed a bracket). Like Shirl was saying though, by the time you do the rest of your supporting mods it may end up costing more than you expect.

[Shirl]

Procharger would be a great choice for our cars since you can run the intercooler with it. It's too bad they never made a kit specific to the V6 Camaros. I see they did it for the Mustang. Thanks ATI. There are other options though, such as running a water injection kit or a separate intercooler (with some fabbing)on top of a kit that WILL fit.

[frank_the_tank]

Ok, now I know Grand National had a 3.8L with a turbo, if I found one in a salvage yard, could I use it and would the turbo fit up better? Would there be less to do? (I don't even know what I'm talking about so I'm sorry if I sound stupid.)

[nocutt]

Three things...do more research very important, next either do a search on this sight for basic info or go to clubgp.com/turbo talk forum.
Fullthrottlev6.com is up and coming with info...good luck.
BTW a GN turbo is a very good turbo, however you will be limited to about ~14psi..max maybe 15psi if properly intercooled...finally it is a very lowend/mid range turbo...it will drop off at the stock powerband of the 3800S2, so ultimately it depends on what part of the fence you are standing!?!?