Lower intake gasket leak ??

[Backfire]

Well, over the last month or so I have posted a few times trying to diagnose an oil leak problem. First it looked to be the pan or rear main seal. Then after I cleaned up the pan and converter shield, I watched for it to come back only the pan stayed clean. But there was still oil on the starter bolts and y-pipe. So I cleaned it again and checked it today. I had been looking at the passanger side head, because that is the side all the oil is on. Felt dry everywhere that I could reach. So, finally I decided to reach around the driver's side and see how far over I could reach. Well, in doing so, I think I finally found the problem. It looks to be a leak at the rear of the motor, possibly a gasket between the block and lower intake manifold? There is a pool of oil/dirt/gunk back there that I can feel with my hand. It is sitting on some sort of ledge but I can't see it. I need to find a small mirror to use.

For anyone familiar with the 3.4L, are there any fittings back there that could leak instead of it being the gasket? Would it make sense that the lower gasket is the source of the leak? Any one with experience doing a repair job like this? I very mechanically inclined, and have done most other jobs on a car, but I have never torn open a motor. Other than torqueing bolts to spec, any special tools or hints for the job? Or, since I have never opened up a motor, would I be better of getting a shop to do it? Any cost estimates?

I appreciate any help.

[ March 28, 2002: Message edited by: Backfire ]</p>

[Backfire]

Just wanted to thank Tiago for the info he provided in the chat room last night. Changing the lower manifold gaskets doesn't sound too bad to fix! Hopefully I won't have to smell burnt oil for too much longer. Thanks again.

[Tiago]

[img]smile.gif[/img]

if its not the lower intake could be also back of the valve covers. either way, if you're gonna be in there, just re place both. doesn't require any special tools.

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