1998 Lumina 3.1 Lower Intake Warpage?

I replaced head gaskets on my 98 Lumina 3.1, after I had it all back together the lower intake was leaking oil from where it meets the block on both sides, I don't know if I didn't put a good enough beed of silicone there, but is warping of the lower intake possible?

IT's possible, but highly unlikely in the area you describe. Most warpage (if any) occurs around the coolant transfer ports or the intake ports and only on engines driven for a long tme with a leak. IF you didn't put enough silicone, or didn't drop the intake straight down while reinstalling it, you could have messed it up enough to allow a leak.

I replaced head gaskets on my 98 Lumina 3.1, after I had it all back together the lower intake was leaking oil from where it meets the block on both sides, I don't know if I didn't put a good enough beed of silicone there, but is warping of the lower intake possible?


Silicone will seal a straight or crocked or warped surface.
But surface has to be good and clean.
No oil or greese on surface and use a good quality silcone.
What kind of silicone did you use?
MT

I used some Permatex Ultra Black, I was told by a local machanic I should have used the Blue or Grey RTV Silicone. I am going back together with it tomorrow any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

I used some Permatex Ultra Black, I was told by a local machanic I should have used the Blue or Grey RTV Silicone. I am going back together with it tomorrow any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

When you pull it off you may be able to see why it leaked.
Import gray works good.
And make sure the surface is clean and dry.
I always like to let it set overnight before starting engine.
Good Luck
MT

Thank You Guys, Lumina runs great and NO Leaks so far.