Signs of boost solenoid not working?

[ericem]

Hey guys, don't recall making a thread here about this, but I still find sometimes if hit the gas and it just gets stuck at 3k rpm's and all hear is the turbo spooling or something. Then eventually MIGHT pull after like 10 seconds. Seems like when the engine is cold the boost solenoid makes a tick sort of nosie whenever you tap the throttle. I got a price on the solenoid and it is like $200. Is it possible I can clean it out? Or is it possible the actually vacuum actuator that opens and closes is the issue? Any ideas? Thanks!

[Legacy777]

It may be the ECU trying to keep you from boosting while the engine is cold. The solenoid's don't typically go out.

 

Can you describe the symptoms a little better. Just sitting at 3krpms doesn't sound normal.

[ericem]

To update the thread. Moved the wastegate in and out manually, and I poured some seafoam down the vacuum hose connected to the wastegate actuator. Hooked it up and went for a drive, then later got a boost gauge, it is making 8.7 psi right at full throttle, didn't think it would full up at full boost so quick pretty sweet! Seems pretty good now. Pretty quick car, and fuel economy still seems pretty good, sucks that it is SO cold right now.

 

I am looking into a saab 900 intercooler. They look pretty cheap and I guess it will make it a bit better particularly on the highway. I am guessing I should remove the housing on the hood school so that air goes through the intercooler but I am going to leave the chimney on the turbo.

[Legacy777]

Yes, you need to remove the hood scoop blank.