New member needing input

[[email protected]]

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

[PotIsYourFriend]

Originally Posted by [email protected]

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...

[JTrujillo86]

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

- Jeremy

[pistonring]

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.

[cficare68]

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.

[[email protected]]

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!!!

[JTrujillo86]

Better than $1400 :-)

- Jeremy