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2001 Impala 3.4 Coolant Leak - Intake Manifold Gasket
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Posted by: Slow Nova

The title pretty much explains it. It's a very common problem in the newer V6 Chevy's. They really should have a recall...but that would cost them $$$$. The dealership wants $1,000 for labor alone, and $260 for parts.

Anyone here have to do this on their 3.4L Chevy? Should I take a couple days off work, and just go for it, or bring it in, and fork up the cash? I really want to do it myself, not just for the money, but also for the learning experience. (But the money has a LOT to do with it!)

Any tips you guys can give me? I need all the help I can get.

Posted by: DeckSetter

Sounds like you've got the decision made already.....

............PORK SODA?! heck yeah!

Posted by: Slow Nova

Quote:

Originally Posted by DeckSetter


	Sounds like you've got the decision made already.....

Still not sure. I've never performed an operation this serious. From what I've been told, I need to remove: Throttle body, intake manifold (obviously), rocker arms, pushrods, alternator & bracket, power steering, fuel lines, and all the wiring and cosmetic stuff covering the top of the engine.

Before you ask...no, the car is not under warranty anymore. And no, I didn't buy the extended warranty. The car's only got 54,000 miles on it.

I talked with one of the service guys at the dealership that was replacing the intermediate shaft (5th time, 4 within warranty, 5th is just because they like me...

), and he told me to contact the dealer that I purchased the car from, and ask for factory assistance, since it's such a common problem. I'm giving them a call today.

Posted by: cswrench

I have done many. They are fairly easy. Make sure you use quality sealant on the ends and torque the manifold. If you lived closer I wold do it on the side for you. I could have you out the door for less than 400.00. That is for everything!

Posted by: BlownElCamino

I'd look at this way, unless you break something, if you try it yourself and fail, you won't be out much except time and maybe the cost of gaskets/ sealant. You will still end up spending about the same amount if you end being forced to shop it.

As long as you have a back-up vehicle, then time is less an issue.

If you are successful, problem solved (for far less).

This is not the sort of thing that presents any significant safety risks, so I would go for it.

Posted by: Bell040

my 2001 3.4 impala has the exact same problem.

$736.17 to fix it at the dealership.

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