1998 Buick Regal Losing Coolant

[gmunch]

New to the forums looking for some guidance. My Regal (non-Supercharged engine) has always been a champ, but it's been losing coolant now consistently. I have to refill the reservoir every week or so. Maybe I'm not noticing it, but I don't see a large puddle anywhere either.

Searching the forums it appears I could have an issue with the intake manifolds? There's a lot of information and I found it hard to process it all. Should I replace the gaskets or more? Is there any procedures available on the web or books that I can use? I'm reasonably handy and I've replaced lots of sensors, plugs etc and can follow directions. Just trying to get more life out of the car because I really can't afford to shell out for another. Plus it's been such a great car (170k miles).

Any advice appreciated.

Thanks,

Gary

[BNaylor]

Welcome to AF.

The best thing to do is replace the lower intake manifold (LIM) gaskets and the plastic UIM plenum to include UIM gaskets. The UIM kits like from Dorman will have all parts needed to do that job. On the LIM gaskets you can go with the FelPro brand or the revised GM aluminum framed gasket set.

Just send me a PM with your regular email address and I will send you a guide on Series II 3800 engine UIM and LIM replacement.

Don't wait too long because you could hydrolock your engine if coolant is consumed in the intake or ruin the internal bearings if coolant is leaking in to the crankcase.