GM Intake manifold problems

[segfault]

Is the 3.1L engine (3100) also affected by the intake manifold problems? I don't see many gripes about it, but I think it was only recently used in the Grand Prix and Century, so there may not be that many out there.

TIA,
segfault

 

[Mystic]

Why does GM have so many problems (it seems to me anyway) with head gaskets and intake manifold gaskets? These problems should have been solved long ago.

 

[Matto]

Mine has been fixed by the dealer under warrenty many years ago for this problem. It began leaking, again, last winter. Mine only leaks when it's cold outside (like last week here in Michigan), makes an aweful mess on the driveway! A few drops a day adds up real quick.

 

[Mike_dup1]

Why?

Because they went to RTV sealants to save time and money. They degrade over time and leak. More and more newer engines ae coming without this crap.

 

[Drew99GT]

Yes, the 3.1 is a baby version of the 3.4, and both fail at about the same rate I would say. The 3.1 also is piston slappy

 

[Drew99GT]

The gasket failures usually are not from RTV. They use crappy rubber gaskets, some are actualy cork. Also, the bolt patter on some of the intakes doesn't spread pressure evenly on mating surfaces.

My mom just had the job done on her Olds 88 and they used RTV in the spots where less clamping presure is applied by the bolts; they explained it to me that way at the dealer.

 

[ralan]

Do these leaks occur externally? I've read other posts here about some GM V-6's leaking coolant into the oil. Is the 3.1 prone to this also? My 98 Lumina does not have any leaks (external). I changed the coolant recently, right at the 5 year mark. Would it be wise to go ahead and replace the gaskets as a preventive measure? How about changing the coolant over to the standard ethylene glycol 50/50 mix (say, Peak brand)? I am getting ready to AutoRx it soon and I will send an oil sample to Blackstone labs.

 

[outrun]

Use Zerex G-05 or G-11.

G-05 is a great and safe alternative.