New member needing input

Hi, I am a new member to this forum and would like some input from its other members.

I own a 2000 Alero with a V6. Just took the car to a mechanic who told me that the lower intake manifold was leaking both oil and coolant (neither leak is very bad). Also, it would cost me $1400 to repair the problem. I have a few questions:
1- Is there a chance that the water & oil could mix in the engine. I under- e rstand that each port on the lower intake has its own gasket and that the water & oil flow on different sides of the intake. I have not
noticed any water in the engine oil when I check it.
2- I am pretty handy with tools. Has anyone on this forum ever replaced the
gaskets on the lower intake manifold for the V6 engine? How difficult of a
job is it?

Any help wil be greatly appreciated

TIA
Bob

Hi, I am a new member to this forum and would like some input from its other members.

I own a 2000 Alero with a V6. Just took the car to a mechanic who told me that the lower intake manifold was leaking both oil and coolant (neither leak is very bad). Also, it would cost me $1400 to repair the problem. I have a few questions:
1- Is there a chance that the water & oil could mix in the engine. I under- e rstand that each port on the lower intake has its own gasket and that the water & oil flow on different sides of the intake. I have not
noticed any water in the engine oil when I check it.
2- I am pretty handy with tools. Has anyone on this forum ever replaced the
gaskets on the lower intake manifold for the V6 engine? How difficult of a
job is it?

Any help wil be greatly appreciated

TIA
Bob

There's a couple that have done it but it's not a job for a rookie... And 1400 bucks sounds a bit much... Try some other places...

It should cost between $500 and $800 depending on where you go. $1400 is a rip off.

- Jeremy

Hi Bob

Evidently my post is too long, it keeps failing.

Question 1: Water can be hidden, it was under my manifold and caused my oil cap to swell. I had none on stick nor any in my oil. But it doesn't take but one fail sweep of water through the bearings and your engine is toast.

Question 2: You can do it yourself if you have the tools needed and the patience. A hot temper will probably eliminate anyone from completing this job as it is very time consuming. many parts need to be removed that you otherwise would think unneccessary.

I have done this job and took many pictures and wrote many notes. Goodluck.

Yes it is possible for that to happen. If your car has the 3400 v6 it is actually a common problem that will occured at around 70,000 miles. 1400 is a little steep though. When it happened to me in my Grand Am I believe I had to pay somewhere in the 300-500 dollar range to have it replaced. I would do some price shopping with other garages in your area.

I took your advice and got a few more estimates on the job. Turned out to be a $400 job. :) I really appreciate the help!!!

Better than $1400 :-)

- Jeremy