Supercharger oil levels. Where should they be? It is a COMMON misconception that oil levels are determined by drain plug height. While this can be the case in some applications, it is wrong more often than it is right. Installation of too much or too little oil will result in failure of your supercharger from the heat generated by too high or too low of an oil level. Also be aware that in some models, the supercharger oil fill plug can be well above or below the confirmed height when mounted. Always use manufacturer’s recommended oil level in the supercharger. Refer to your owner’s manual for aftermarket applications. Misinformation is abundant on forums and websites.
Let me provide an example: Saleen S6 superchargers- many forums and even a supercharger rebuilder was telling everyone 12 ounces of oil. If 12 ounces of oil are installed, oil will flow out of the vented pulley bolt, giving the appearance that the supercharger seal is bad. This supercharger rebuilder told them to just put silicone in the vented bolt hole. The correct oil level is 7 ounces. That is almost half of the amount recommended on the internet!
Superchargers that are rebuilt at our shop, leave here in 2 ways. If the supercharger is vented, oil is not installed as it will leak out in transit. If the supercharger is non-vented, the oil level is filled to the correct level.
To curb internet speculation and misconceptions, JBP has taken steps for many years to help eliminate failures, resulting from someone not following directions on their paperwork. Stickers are placed on the supercharger indicating the status of either oil or no oil. They are generally placed on the pulley/hub or drain plug. They are bright yellow for a reason. JBP also uses heat indicating wax to determine the operating temperature of the supercharger. This helps determine the operating temperature that the supercharger was at, if and when a failure occurs. This helps us determine if oil was put in before, or after the failure. Just one more way we work with our customers towards increasing reliability and quality.