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Originally Posted by northstar1958
Gentlemen:
My 97 pa has started using coolant, no leaks, and some white exhaust. It seems to run fine, but over the past few months i've been adding coolant and can't find a leak. Do i need to replace the intake? and if so...is it a big job?
The vehicle has 130,000 miles on it. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Northstar
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This is a problem to get to work on right away! To ignore could lead to a hydrolock of the engine or damage to the lower bearing (engine then toast). Probably the upper intake (plenum). A second one went bad on my 97 at 120k. Dorman makes a stronger replacement. Mechanics with reasonable ability do these in their sleep. Try searching for the past threads on this problem...a common problem and lots of information available. Usually the upper is replaced with the gaskets and PCV valve (plugs would be good too). It is also recommended to replace the lower gasket, and get a new lower intake with a smaller EGR stovepipe, or just replace the stovepipe with a smaller diameter one (the Dorman kit may include this). A sleeved upper intake can be purchased, or a sleeving kit from Ken-Co can be purchased, some owners sleeve their own intake. GM went to a smaller stovepipe in 99, this has helped but did not eliminate the problem. Again, start looking around, a very common problem...lots of info available on the bonnevilleclub site.