Thread: New here! few questions :)

These engines are prone to LIM gaskets failing, causing coolant to get into the oil, leading to rod knock, which sounds like what was your problem the last 2 times. TO prevent this, you have to replace the gasket with an aluminum one. Not sure about the running rough, maybe elaborate on it or get a video. Last oil change? Keep an eye on coolant level.

with someone who is good with tools and has a fair amount of mechanics, probably like a 4. if you have no idea what you are doing probably like a 7 or 8. but there is a write up on how to do it, and plenty of us will give you help if needed. And hippo, you are forgetting that the glassed filled nylon intakes we got warp when they get hot. and the EGR tube likes to "melt" away the intake which will also cause coolant to be burned, therefor the upper intake should be replaced with a new intake manifold.

I haven't done it but would say a 5-6 there is a how to video somewhere on here but here is a thread: http://www.grandprixforums.net/lim-gasket-replacement-2-46950.html

Fill up the coolant and make sure it isn't goin anywhere and post up a vid if possible.

advace auto parts will have it or autozone

to get the best prices order online and enter promo VISA when you check out. (at advancedautoparts.com )

If you going to do it, you'll need the LIM gaskets-around 75 bucks for the aluminum ones
and UIM gaskets-around 40 bucks. should get it all for about 80 bucks with the promotional code.

Originally Posted by wilk84

every so often, on warm starts, it has a rough idle to it. Enough to feel. If I put it in drive, it will smooth out and run just fine. The previous two motors did this before blowing so it has me concerned. I know I am being vague but don't really know how to describe it more so. Any tips? Suggestions? Experiences?

This is not likely to be a LIM gasket failure. I wouldn't be worried about it in your position.

To clarify, what we have is a rough idle in PARK, but no symptoms in DRIVE.

Originally Posted by SlowNA06

This is not likely to be a LIM gasket failure. I wouldn't be worried about it in your position.

To clarify, what we have is a rough idle in PARK, but no symptoms in DRIVE.

True: the LIM gaskets is not the cause of this problem....but every 3800 owner should be worried about it if they don't know what conditon their LIM gaskets are in.

now on to the real problem

Do you have any codes...and if your engine light is'nt on, scan it anyways.