The rubber boot on my supercharger failed for the second time in 16 months. Both times were on the race track and the car went into limp mode. The first time I figured it mainly due to the car being 7 years old and rubber parts can dry out. But failing again after 16 months seems unusual?

I did a web search to see if this was common and I did not find anything. Has anyone else run into this and, if so, is there a better solution than OEM parts?

Deven

 

Do you mean the intercooler boots? (The parts that connect to the top intercooler/heat exchanger)

 

My driver side one failed a couple years ago, replaced them with the Alta ones, but they are a ***** to install... really, but really tight. Prepare a curse jar or something.

 

Its the Air Intake Duct Boot - Intercooler to Supercharger Air Duct (Right). Its on the passenger side. I called it "Rubber Boot" because that was the description on the dealer invoice.

I read online that there is a 2 year warranty on the boot, so I will check with my dealer to see if this is covered on Monday.

Deven

 

If you search for intercooler boot on NAM you'll find lots of talk about them.
They don't fail often, but they are hard to seat properly and lead to issues if leaking.

As mentioned, aftermarket silicone ones are available, and are a PIA to put on. You can search for installation tips for the silicone boots, some have found that soaking them in boiling water before installation helps to stretch them.

Good luck.

 

After a little searching I think I'll go with these unless anyone recommends otherwise.

http://altaperformance.com/i-1400712...ed-engine.html

 

From what I've read on the forums the oem are the way to go. Just my .02cents

 

That's what I have, but haven't installed them yet.

 

Go OEM IMO...
If the OEM ones are installed too tight, they can get cut by the bands....
About s year ago the part numbers on the bands changed....$$ went up...think the design is slightly different...
Most folks that go with the Alta's say "never again".... Getting them warm on hot water is said to make them more pliable.... But still a #$%& pain....

 

Even with hot water... OEM ones are fairly easy to install and remove when you need to work in the intercooler area, the Alta ones aren't even with a couple years of engine heat.

 

OEM with the factory clamps.

The tricky bit is getting the bottom side seated. Rotate the boot while on the horn and it will mostlikely set correctly, otherwise get your fingers in there and find out if it seated.