Pontiac Bonneville

tpken

Welcome to Bonnieland. It takes above average intelligence and looks to join the clan here - you're in buddy!

Ken '00 SE

tpken

Why would you want to 'stop being a younger adult' ??? lol

alaskanhotrod

So, I went and picked up my K&N air filter this A.M.. I also ordered my pulley changer from grandprixstore.com . Should get it next week and as well as having the exhaust installed. I haven't felt this way about car parts since I was a teenager.....YAHOO!!!!

I'll let you all know the "seat of the pants "test results when I'm finished...
Take care and thanks for the warm welcome.

tpken

My wife took the Bonneville over to NTW for tire rotation yesterday (free regardless of where tires are purchased) and to check the alignment. It was 6000 miles since the last rotation and I was feeling a bit of vibration in the front.

I noticed driving in to work this morning that it is tracking great - no vibe - all well for trip to Pa tomorrow. Wife just called to tell me that NTW had installed a new tie rod yesterday. ($200)

Glad I found out before 1000 more miles by Friday and I suppose it's time at 53K for some components to start wearing out. $200 seems a bit stiff though. Can't remember what I spent for that on my Gr Marquis a few years ago.

smfran

I guess the "stiff" $200 helped cover the "free" rotation!
Have a safe trip.
Stephen

montanafan

I'm thinking 1/3 parts, 1/3 labor, 1/3 4-wheel align?

tpken

free rotations probably pay off pretty well for those guys. Still have a little vibration so I'm going to have to have it looked at again. It was smooth as silk for 100 miles or so but I noticed it again on my drive to Pa yesterday.

Had a great time with Steve last night and he took 'Christmas in June' pics of our Spruce Green and Maple Red SE models. Hope to see them posted soon.

streetracer

I just bought an SSEi as my new daily driver, and gave the GTP to my mom - who needed a new car.

The SSEi is an amazing car. The ride and quality and handling are much better than GTP or Regal GS. Those cars had excellent stability and ultimate grip - with a good set of after market performance tires (Dunlop SP3000).

However the SSEi is much more agile, responsive,and balanced, with as much if not more grip and stability - on stock rubber. The new Aurora V8 gets .84G, and the SSEi now (2002)has very similar tires/wheels. I estimate grip should be the .82+ range. The much heavier and more softly sprung STS now gets .82G with sane 17 inch wheels and 235/55 rubber.

The car has virtually no torque steer, nor wheel hop or "surging", two things that plague the GTP. I chalk up the difference to a slightly smoother torque curves that hits a little higher in the RPM range (3600 vs 3200), in addition to more advanced suspension and ridgidity (whole cars goes not front end first).

I literally can not tell from the ride and dynamics if the car is FWD, RWD, or AWD for that matter, in every day driving and even my more spirited runs.

The build quality, styling, and ergonomics is on par with any car, which I have been a passenger or driven in - which includes most the luxury/performance marquees from both sides of the altlantic and pacific.

streetracer

I ordered the pulley and puller tool from thrasher engineered performance. My uncle who is a mechanic and use to work on Regal Gran Nationals is going to do the install.

I have two questions:

1 - Will the extra power affect the cars ride and handling? I love how they have tuned torque steer and wheel hop out of the Bonnie, and am worried additional torque might overwhelm even its excellent chassis.

2- What is the recommended "break-in" period before going a smaller pulley? I was thinking waiting at least 500 miles, to make sure nothing is defective, and everything is fully "lubed".

tpken

Glad to hear you're enjoying the SSEi - best wishes for a long enoyable love affair with your Bonnie!!

Ken '00 SE

sonnyb3

Thinking about buying a 98 SE with 44K miles on it. My main concern is the ride. I know it is a great Highway cruiser but what about on the rough or bumpy roads? Does it lose its composure, creek and rattle? My 96 monte Z34 is just awful on rough roads.

tpken

I've compared the ride of my '00 SE (55K miles now) to that of my carpool buddy's 97 Grand Prix GTP which may or not be a similar comp to your Monte. That GTP hits every ridge and pothole like a dump truck and reports a resounding creak every time in contrast to a very controlled and quiet response from my Bonnie. Try the 98 out over a variety of roads for yourself and see what you think.

Best wishes

Ken

fantascp

I own both a 2000 SE and a 98 SSE- There is a difference in the feel of both cars.- the 2000 is a softer ride- however i havn't had any problems with any creaks or rattles from either vehicle.
I would also agree with what Ken stated above- test the 98 SE on various roads etc.- I will say this for the 98- (which I use as my primary ride-to work ) its a pleasure to drive. If you have researched the 98- its also a Consumers Guide Best Buy for that year and there are NO NHTSA recalls on the vehicle. Some other info on the 98 can be found on MSN'S Carpoint-consumer reviews-
for the most part, are very favorable.
If the car is well maintained, and you like the way it handled on bumpy roads etc- with 44,000 miles- if the price is right- you should seriously consider purchasing the vehicle- their solidly built cars.

Good Luck,

Chuck

ezrapon

I have the 3.4 pulley. I waited until it clocked about 2000 miles before I installed it. Give the car that long to loosen up and for any defects that might be voided by the pulley to pop up. I was disappointed with the performance of my SSEi at first. I even had gran prix gt's and lesabre's beating be. At about 2000 (as the salesman promised) the engine loosened up and the car started to perform much better. THEN: I installed the pulley. Ride and handling were not affected. A little more tire left on the road after burn outs... front wheel drive cars all suck for performance. There is no way around that. Even the Asian manufactures have left there Hi-Po cars rear wheel drive.

streetracer

Thanks for the tips. I find the Bonnie to be only slightly slower than my GTP, and really only off the line. I chalk in up to slightly more weight and a torque curve the hits a little higher. The Bonnie is also deceptively fast because of how solid its built, and the smoother torque curve.

I think a lot of the cars performance has to due to with altitude, humidity, and temperature.

There are stock GTPs running 14.3 in the 1/4, and stock Bonnie SSE's running 14.7 - especially here in NJ. The majority of road tests put the GTP in the high 14s or low 15s, and the SSEi in the mid to high 15s.

sonnyb3

Thanks Ken and Chuck for your opinions. I know someone with a 96 SE and hope to drive it locally for a real life test. Not just a test on a smooth highway near the dealer.

Ken, It sounds like you have been in my car. Many people think I am obcessed with the fact that my car rides like junk. Reading your description of the GTP makes me feel justified! When you dread to get in the car it is time to look for another.
Can you guys also tell me if the 98 Bonne Se came standard with traction control and keyless entry. I have two cars to look at and one does not list keyless or traction control.

fantascp

From the info i got, both traction control and remote keyless entry were OPTIONS for the SE model and Standard with the SSE.

Try going on the site I have listed below-its for a 1998 SE- listing both standard and optional equipment

http://www.autoworld.com/scripts/carprice.asp?28366

If that doesn't work- try going to just Autoworld.com and follow the prompts for a 1998 Pontiac Bonneville SE.

Regards,

Chuck.

streetracer

I installed my pulley today. One word - BOOST!!!

The car is amazingly quick now, easily quicker than my GTP - especially given how smooth and solid the car rides. It feels like one piece of metal, but now one with a rocket sled underneath.

Amazingly, no torque steer or wheel hop, and it still has a RWD or AWD feel.

boosted1

More boost is a good thing. I am planning this upgrade for my Bonnie too. I just need to wait until we finish building our house before I "blow" money on that.

How much boost are you getting with the new pulley?

vcjumper

Best be getting a tranny cooler installed, the transmission will need all the help it can get surviving the extra power.

streetracer

I have the 3.4 inch pulley installed, vs the factory stock 3.8. I am now getting probably 12PSI+ at full throttle at all RPM levels. I can even get 8-10PSI at 1/4 to half throttle, and bury it (10PSI) at 3/4 throttle or greater. The pulley is suppose to produce 11PSI of boost under full throttle (12PSI at redline). However gauge only goes to 10PSI as you know.

These numbers are in mid 90 temps, with air conditioner on, a new engine (600 miles).

My understanding is with the 3.4 pulley you don't need to upgrade transmission or use intercoolering, and won't suffer any significant durability or fuel economy degration.

zredd

Does anyone else have the problem, plastic coating getting chip and peel?
especially around the key

I have an '00 Bonne SE, it's been getting these peels since the first week!

boosted1

Thanks for the info. I can't wait to get one now.

Keep that traction control switched on, or yu will need new tires by the time you hit 10,000 miles.

Enjoy the ride.

h101

I have a 2000 SSEi and have not had any problem

bbraden

Ever have power steering that only works part of the time? Well, I had dead spots in the lock to lock. Asked my local Schuck's store and they suggested a new power steering pump (whining noise when in operation). I agreed. $124.00 later...same problem. Then they suggested the rack & pinion is probably shot, too. $300+ later and confused as to how to get it in the car. Anyone out there done this switch before? Thanks for any help. bbraden

fantascp

I have the same year and model- 2000 SE- i havn't had any chipping or peeling problems.- Suggestion-possibly a defect with your dash etc that the Dealer and or Pontiac Corporate HQ should be responsible to fix.

Chuck.

tpken

Same model and year here and no problems either

streetracer

Does anyone know if the SSEi has "adaptive" throttle control?

It seems like the throttle response depends not just on how far you put the peddle down, but how quickly you do it, and how long you keep it there:)

pturner1

Sounds nice, I'll check it out.

xavier64

The Maple Red Bonnie is going on a nice road trip out to Dayton, Ohio to the Air Force Museum at Wright-Patterson AFB. Leaving on Saturday morning and returning on Tuesday.

I figure the trip will take 10-12 hrs from the Philly area to Dayton with stops along the way.

I am looking forward for some highway cruising where the Bonnie is much at home. If you see a Red Bonnie flying by on the highway, say hello

Ken, I will be taking a few pictures while I am at the museum so I will finally get those pictures developed from the Joseph Ambler Inn.

Take care everyone and have a safe weekend

Steve

tpken

And let it ROAR!!!

Stephen

I doubt it will take you 10-12 hours. I've driven from Philly to Louisville Ky in that time.

Have a great trip. I know how much you will enjoy the air museum. Hopefully the travelling will be as enjoyable. Are you taking the PA tpke? What a horrible road! Between the convoys of trucks and the jersey barriers dividing the highway and the inevitable delays and traffic jams it's just the pits.

Looking forward to hearing your trip report and seeing the pics.

I'm going out for 2 weeks vaca starting Monday - between home and camp - hoping to relax and do some boating and swimming and some odd jobs around both properties. Not sure when I'll check in - so see you all in 2 weeks.

Ken

ezrapon

The ssei is getting ready to turn 3. I usually get the itch way befoe now for a new ride. All the Mercury dealers in St. Louis have 5 or 6 of the Marauders in stock. 4.6 litre and 302 H.P. Quite a bit faster than the ssei. They will drop a grand off the 34000 sticker (this was over the phone; might be able to wring more out in person). They are fast, they handle well with their 18 inch tires, and they are rear wheel drive. The stereo has got to be better with two subs. Real dual exhaust and the v-8 sound. It's a tough decision. I think I'd give up a lot for a little less time in the 1/4 mile: stabilitrac, independent rear suspension, a distinct weight advantage, and the DIC. I guess I'm going to have to actually drive one...seat of the pants is so subjective. Where is everyone?

This thing is dying...we need another Rams/Pats super Bowl to liven up these posts!
OK... The Cardinals will kill all the Canadian and Northeastern teams with only 2 pitchers. The gauntlet has been dropped!!! Really... who expects the pats back in the superbowl again this century. The Rams will rule again. Is this a car forum still?

boosted1

Hard to beat the Mercury. I am sure it will become legendary. I have the brochure, and I signed up to win one. Wish I had some extra $$ to buy one.

Still love our SSEi though, the Mercury would be a nice addition to my collection.

sse97bnvlle

I just feel like rambling a little bit about my car. You know every time I drive my car I feel so lucky to have such a nice car. It fails to impress me every day when I drive it. The smooth ride, smooth abundant power, awesome stereo, you name it. I'm ssssssssooooooooooo glad I picked it over the intrepid. When I was car shopping in april i almost got a 2000 intrepid mainly b/c i like the way they look and i couldnt test drive the bonneville that day b/c they couldnt find the keys. I'd regret buying it if I had. it was nice and rode smooth and had power, but it wasnt nearly as nice as my car. I signed a paper saying I would test drive the bonneville the following week and if i wanted it it was mine (b/c a couple was looking at it and wanted it too). So I guess I kinda swiped it away from them. I don't feel bad at all about doing that either! I feel so lucky to be 18 and have such a nice car. It has everything I wanted. Mine is loaded......every option except the supercharged engine. I dont remember who said it in this board about having a love affair w/ your bonneville but I sure am w/ mine. I love this car.

smfran

I had one before my current 2000 SSEi. It was a fantastic car and much better than my 2000 except for the supercharged engine. It was a much better design as far as the interior is concerned.
Good luck with yours!

pturner1

At 63.5k, my 2000 SSEi is fantastic. Everytime I drive it, it is a pleasure. The power, the style, the comfort, the ride...... So far, not a problem beyond general care. I can't imagine a Ford even if it was given to me. And, I have yet to get the pulley kit. This car is a keeper.
Rick

tpken

I saw 2 at local M/L dealer but the styling does absolutely NOTHING for me since it is basically unchanged for 10 years now. Once they get some new sheetmetal on it I think it'll sell like crazy. Didn't get a chance to drive one but I'm sure it smokes.

Still lovin my 2000 SE - at 55K now.

Ken

ezrapon

They scoot. I drove one last night. I believe my ssei would take it in a 1/4 mile (it gets off the line a bit better). A stock ssei would be smoked however. The Merc was pretty spartan. It reminded me of my dad's old 65 galaxy 500 with the 390. The engine needs to spool up and really needs a stick and a lighter ride to shine. If I had a choice, I'd go with a Park Ultra with the same mods as my ssei. That would be a sleeper. A much more refined sleeper.

ezrapon

I've been doing a lot of around town driving lately as I'm off during the summer. Sadly I have begun to feel a distinct clunk in the steering and/or drive train on low speed manuvers. I now have to question the wisdom of the modifications to the engine. Take heed fellow speed merchants.

montanafan

Time to have the Intermidiate Steering Shaft lubed.

tpken

Not much activity her of late. Hopefully most of us are enjoying the summer sun.

We've been back and forth to camp and doing all the water related activites. This is my 2nd week of vacation - it's sooooo nice to have more than a week.

Got to go wash the Bonneville now. The Suburban bas been seeing all the driving this past week and I'm sure the Bonnie is glad to see me! lol

Stephen - how was that trip???

Mark - hope you're at camp too.

Best wishes and greetings to all

Ken

kevin_powell1

Hi,
I am wanting to buy a '92 Bonneville and can someone possibly tell me where to find the complete list of differences in features between the models? Anyone have a '92 they would like to sell or know someone that does?
Thanks
Kevin

xavier64

Ken,

The trip to the US Air Force Base went well and the car drove great. I left Philly around 9:00 AM and pulled into Fairborn, OH at 6:30PM. On the way back was about 10 Hrs as well. On both the way up and back, the two car convoy stopped three times on each leg, but I only had to stop for fuel once. The Bonnie's 18 gallon tank and great highway mileage is a tuff combo to beat. I averaged close to 30 mpg with four people and gear.

I did travel the PA Turnpike and hooked up with Rt 70. The only traffic issue was in Columbus during morning rush hour on the way back.

The pictures were not ready yet but I hope to set up a web site on yahoo to place the photos on your green bonnie with mine.

I will say that the trip confirms that the Bonnie is the queen of the road and I hope for many miles of great driving...sxb

benjohnson

Your problem sounds like you may need a new rack. This is a known design problem in the SSEi, STS and LeSabre.

My wife and I had 3 replaced until they put in the new design.

You will notice the problem most on extreme turns going very slowly

If you're out of warranty, you may be able to push for a new one by calling Pontiac..Good Luck!

fantascp

Kevin- go to www.autoworld.com click on used car guide in upper left- enter your zip-code and e mail address- then next screen- select pontiac etc- enter 1992- next screen will show a list of all models made that year- select and compare what you are looking for.

Good Luck.

Chuck

ezrapon

Have any of you guys with the 2002 ssei models happen to look at the picture of the 3.8 engine on MSN Car Point? The engine pictured looks nothing like my 2000. When did they go to the the machined s/c pulley? Or is this a misprint? I don't recall my s/c looking like this one pictured. Perhaps they did an un advertised engine face lift

sse97bnvlle

I have a question. My car vibrates at highway speeds. Sometimes not too bad...othertimes pretty bad. It seems to be coming from the front and back and something in the suspension in both front and back just doesnt feel right...like a loose kinda feeling. Its more like a vibration-rumble type feeling and you can feel it through the steering wheel too. Any ideas? Tie rods and everything seem to be fine. What about the balljoints could those be going out maybe? It seems like its slowly getting worse but I dont have the money to pay a mechanic to check it out right now. I'd rather do it myself and save the money anyways.

fantascp

I have a 98 SSE- I was getting a vibration at speeds between 60 and 70 MPH- The steering wheel would shake pretty bad- I had all 4 Wheels re-balanced- no more vibration. I would recommend trying that first. If your vibrating is when you apply your brakes- its possible that your front rotors are warped and need to be either replaced or re-cut.

Chuck

streetracer

I am think about upgrading to 18X8.5 wheels with 245mm wide 45 profile tires. I may also go to 15 inch rotors and brakes.

Does anyone have any experience with upsized wheels/tires and brakes? I am really looking to increase grip and stoping power, but not effect the ride quality and handling - which are near perfect.

mlm4

I'm no expert, but that sure looks like the 3800 with an aftermarket supercharger on it. I doubt that is the factory setup, but then again I haven't seen the '02s under the hood.