3800 series 2 engine swap 97 LS

[caddiali]

Re: 3800 engine failure? 97 LS Regal

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So decided to go with a used engine, with about 97k according to the mechanic. Just would like to know, after a used engine is put in, are there any things I should keep my eye on? Never had it done before, so I'm wondering if there are any complications or things that can go wrong. Im going to use the Castrol high mileage 10w30 oil, along with Prestone antifreeze for the coolant.

The guys are working to remove the blown 3800 series 2, waiting for the used one to arrive. I will update on the status in the coming days.

Thanks for the continued advice Automotive Forum!

[GTP Dad]

Keep an eye on the coolant level. I am assuming this is a Normally aspirated engine. They do have an issue with lower intake manifold gaskets that could fail and allow the coolant to enter the oil. You may want to take a couple of hours and change them with the engine out of the car. It will be much easier and it will give you piece of mind.

[caddiali]

Thanks for your quick reply, gtpdad.. Yes its a non supercharged series 2 engine. I've mentioned the lower intake gaskets issue to him. Ironically he changed my UIM and LIM gaskets and water pump 2 years ago on the blown engine.. He said he will inspect the incoming engine but it is a good idea to replace them....Thanks!

Before the motor failure, the change oil soon light would come on for 15 seconds after every start up. But it made no sense cause my oil was changed at 184k and the engine seized at 188k. That's still under the 5000k recommended interval. Im assuming that light was malfunctioning or something, because my oil reading on the dipstick was normal. I never had to add any oil since the gaskets were changed, and the car didnt drip oil underneath anymore. But I did switch from synthetic oil to normal oil after the gasket change. Any thoughts on that change oil soon light?

[GTP Dad]

If the change oil light came on it doesn't mean anything. It is possible that the light was detecting some metal in the oil but that is doubtful as well. I really think that it was just a coincidence.

[Ruley73]

The change oil soon light comes on when the ECM determines that the oil needs to be changed soon. It is only accurate if you reset it every time the oil is changed. There is NO sensor that actually physically monitors the oil. It is just a calculation based primarily on engine RPM and engine operating temp. Mileage is NOT a factor in this calculation.

Here is a link to a very informative post about the GM Oil Life meter that was written by an engineer at GM.