Pic IN the Casa
Well-Known Member
So my daughter has a 99 Buick Regal (50k miles). Took it for a 'once over' before she heads back to school. Mechanic (who I trust) said it sounded like the supercharger was making whine/rattle noise as if a bearing may be going out. The belt was replaced yesterday. Started researching and yay for me they are super expensive, even to rebuild ($1300 range).
I always thought the whine was from the alternator as I was told that 3.8 engine is notorious for that sound.
Questions I have after researching (and trying to get out of this as gently as possible):
It can still be driven but will lack as much power???
I have found several used ones on line, even ebay, from $250 up. Rebuilts are $700. Would you even think of buying one from a junk yard?
Looked at some old GM forums and some suggestions were to check/change the oil in them to see if that helps or solves noise issues.
Also, some suggested it may just be the coupling which may negate a rebuild.
Anyone know someone in Nashville area that will rebuild one if I buy the kit online?
Ultimately, I guess I should take it to the dealer and let them diagnose it and go from there.
I always thought the whine was from the alternator as I was told that 3.8 engine is notorious for that sound.
Questions I have after researching (and trying to get out of this as gently as possible):
It can still be driven but will lack as much power???
I have found several used ones on line, even ebay, from $250 up. Rebuilts are $700. Would you even think of buying one from a junk yard?
Looked at some old GM forums and some suggestions were to check/change the oil in them to see if that helps or solves noise issues.
Also, some suggested it may just be the coupling which may negate a rebuild.
Anyone know someone in Nashville area that will rebuild one if I buy the kit online?
Ultimately, I guess I should take it to the dealer and let them diagnose it and go from there.
