Intake manifold gasket Q Help quick!

[mikeypooh1]

I am installing it right now I bought it from the dealer. I bought it on Thursday and decided to install it today since its memorial day and I have the day off, but I forgot to ask if it needed to be installed with gasket sealer. please help me

[BNaylor]

What year is your Century?

[mikeypooh1]

Sorry, it's a 1996 Buick Century 3.1 V6. I would also like the torque specifications for the bolts, if you happen to have them. Thanks

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by mikeypooh1

Sorry, it's a 1996 Buick Century 3.1 V6. I would also like the torque specifications for the bolts, if you happen to have them. Thanks

For the 3.1L lower intake gaskets you should use RTV sealant or whatever came in your kit to both ends of the block where the manifold makes contact. 8-10 mm bead should be good. Get it in the corners good to be sure of a good seal.

LIM torque values:

4 top bolts to 5 ft lbs
2 side bolts to 5 ft lbs
4 top bolts to 10 ft lbs
2 side bolts to 18 ft lbs

UIM torque value:

18 ft-lbs

Unless you have new bolts with thread locker already applied use Blue thread locker so the bolts do not vibrate out. If re-using old bolts be sure to get all old thread locker off first.

BTW - GM revised the torque specifications and pattern for most 1996 and up GM cars with the 3.1L and the improved LIM gaskets. However, I did not see if it was applicable to your year model but I suggest following the revision below:


1. Tighten the vertical lower intake manifold bolts (1) to 7 N.m (62 in-lb).

2. Tighten the diagonal lower intake manifold bolts (2) to 7 N.m (62 in-lb).

3. Tighten the vertical lower intake manifold bolts (1) to 13 N.m (115 in-lb).

4. Tighten the diagonal lower intake manifold bolts (2) to 25 N.m (18 lb ft).

Good luck!

[maxwedge]

Originally Posted by bnaylor

For the 3.1L lower intake gaskets you should use RTV sealant or whatever came in your kit to both ends of the block where the manifold makes contact. 8-10 mm bead should be good. Get it in the corners good to be sure of a good seal.

LIM torque values:

4 top bolts to 5 ft lbs
2 side bolts to 5 ft lbs
4 top bolts to 10 ft lbs
2 side bolts to 18 ft lbs

UIM torque value:

18 ft-lbs

Unless you have new bolts with thread locker already applied use Blue thread locker so the bolts do not vibrate out. If re-using old bolts be sure to get all old thread locker off first.

BTW - GM revised the torque specifications and pattern for most 1996 and up GM cars with the 3.1L and the improved LIM gaskets. However, I did not see if it was applicable to your year model but I suggest following the revision below:


1. Tighten the vertical lower intake manifold bolts (1) to 7 N.m (62 in-lb).

2. Tighten the diagonal lower intake manifold bolts (2) to 7 N.m (62 in-lb).

3. Tighten the vertical lower intake manifold bolts (1) to 13 N.m (115 in-lb).

4. Tighten the diagonal lower intake manifold bolts (2) to 25 N.m (18 lb ft).

Good luck!

Bob, I think that the revised torques and pattern specs only apply with the updated bolts, I'll check further, I am sure you will too. Max.

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by maxwedge

Bob, I think that the revised torques and pattern specs only apply with the updated bolts, I'll check further, I am sure you will too. Max.

I really don't know Max. I was told to use the revised torque figures when you use new bolts and the improved LIM gaskets. What is significant is the torque pattern more than the minor difference in torque figures. Because if you do the math there really isn't that much difference from the older figures I provided.

[JDSU2000]

I Hate To Sound Like A DumbBass...But Just Where Are These Bolts Located On The 2000 (3.1) Century.I See Bolts But Am Not Sure Which Ones I Am Suppose To Torque. And What Ft.Lb. To Torque Them.
Thanks For Any Help.

[kirby747]

seems to be a common problem with the 3.1? what does the engine do when the gasket is bad?

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by kirby747

seems to be a common problem with the 3.1? what does the engine do when the gasket is bad?

There are various issues. Mainly unexplained loss of coolant. Engine overheating. And possibly oil in cooling system or coolant mixed with engine oil. You may have other driveability issues like loss of power, misfire, etc.