I have always had good luck with GM gassers . We had a Chevy Lumina and it used coolant for some time before we figured out it was an intake gasket. Not a cheap repair at the dealers ,but it was only real problem in 100 K miles. We bought a used 2001 Impala and I insisted we get a 3800 because this engine has the reputation of being pretty much bombproof as it has been used in the bigger Buicks for years. After it lost its second quart of coolant in 4 weeks we just got it repaired for the same thing.
When I looked at what was leaking, I could hardly believe it . The intake manifold was PLASTIC. Worse yet.the gasket was also plastic with a ''printed'' sealing surface. the exhaust gas recirculation system also goes thru this whole mess and if the coolant leaks too long. it blows the whole intake assembly by thermal shock. The tech told me that the newer cars have an aluminum manifold, but even then a long term gasket leak can erode it. He also said it's a wonder that they don't have more trouble , given the different expansion rates of metal and plastic.
I guess i will see if gaskets and such are aftermarket becaause I may have to replace a few in the future.
When I looked at what was leaking, I could hardly believe it . The intake manifold was PLASTIC. Worse yet.the gasket was also plastic with a ''printed'' sealing surface. the exhaust gas recirculation system also goes thru this whole mess and if the coolant leaks too long. it blows the whole intake assembly by thermal shock. The tech told me that the newer cars have an aluminum manifold, but even then a long term gasket leak can erode it. He also said it's a wonder that they don't have more trouble , given the different expansion rates of metal and plastic.
I guess i will see if gaskets and such are aftermarket becaause I may have to replace a few in the future.