Hey Guys, need some input, direction/advice.
I had a '97 Runner which we installed a 1st gen S/C from TRD on around 20-30,000 miles. The thing ran flawlessly up to 145,000 miles when I sold it to a friend. He bought it and had it checked out later at Toyota. They have told him it needs a new S/C because something about the fan blades being worn and that they could drop down into the eninge etc. He had a separate mechanic take a look as well and confirmed it needs a new S/C. Keep in mind I've driven this things daily and hadn't had any problems, though apparently the S/C was in need of new idle bearings as the Runner did make some rattling noise when just resting at idle. So, my buddy is pretty upset because he feels like he's now staring down paying another $3500 ($2500 for new part plus $1000 install) to fix something neither of us knew about.
Does any of this make sense? Does this really happen? Can superchargers "wear out"?? Anyplace I can get a cheaper part?
THanks guys. I feel like I sold my friend a lemon but I didn't even know and don't want to ruin our friendship over it.

 

Yes than can happen and first gen charger seem to enjoy breaking more than the 2nd gen. My recommendation is to contact David at Magnuson and have them test it and rebuild it if necessary. Its MUCH cheaper than buying a new charger and they will test it before shipping it back. And they are the company who made the charger so they will for sure fix it correctly and have all the correct parts available. the installation and de-installation is not hard at all few hoses and bolts and the bad boy comes off with no issues.

 

Thanks for a quick reply. I'm no tech and therefore wanted to confirm this. Can you tell me more about this Magnuson? Where are they located? Contact info?
Have you heard of a group called PSE supercharger out of the midwest that claims to do refurbs. Let me know. I need a solution that doesn't involve a whole new $2500 unit.

 

Nevermind, googled it and found it.

 

magnuson (cali based) is the company that made the supercharger for TRD. if you look on your friend's charger it probably has a magnuson sticker.....ask for David in the service dept he is very decent.

there have been a few posts around saying they refurb them for around 750.....but depending how much is actually wrong it could be more...


good luck!

 

If it's gonna be too costly for you, just put a regular intake back on it.

 

yeah i'll take the sc from ya and send ya my intake manifold