'98 3.8L With Coolant Leak

['73 Stingray]

It started with a slow leak and just got worse. I can't tell exactly where it is comming from. After searching the forums I see that a leak at the intake is common with these cars and that a plenum gasket set usually does the job. I have been able to find what is exactly involved with this job. I was just wondering what all has to be removed and looking for any advice.

Also, could it be anything else? The leak is comming from the passenger's side around the power steering pully/waterpump/tensioner area but is not directly visable.

Thanks,
Scott

[maxwedge]

Yes the failure of the uim is common, the egr passage deteriorates, but this requires an updated manifold, the lim gaskets are also in the mix as a possibility, you need to trace the visible leak with a pressure test, fix that, then see if there are any further issues. Sounds like the water pump here.

[luminasrus]

could be the plastic fitting for the short bypass hose off of the water pump

[maxwedge]

Also good suggestion.

[slicktree]

Originally Posted by luminasrus

could be the plastic fitting for the short bypass hose off of the water pump

I also have a 98 lumina with a 3.8. I traced my coolant leak to a plastic 90 degree fitting just below the PCV valve. Is this the "bypass" fitting you spoke of? It is leaking pretty bad right out of the union at the intake manifold. How is this fitting repaired/replaced?