I need a consensus on a very common issue with the 3800

[Nas Escobar]

I know my 3800 is RWD instead of FWD, but it's not like the engine code is different... Anyways, I'm doing the Lower intake manifold gasket repair on my 2002 Camaro and it seems that a lot of people are against using RTV sealant on the engine because Felpro designed it as such...

 

Now that's them, but they are only a small percentage of the 3800 market. So now I must ask my fellow W body folks with 3800's, is it a good idea to use RTV sealant on the metal gaskets on a 3800? Why or why not?

 

Of those on here that did a LIMG job, how many used the RTV and did they have issues because they did use, or because they didn't use it?

 

All help is appreciated

[carkhz316]

You only need any RTV on the corners of the valley where the heads meet the block, for about a .5-1 inch overlap. Also small overlap on top of the gasket where it meets the block. This is how I've done it and I've never had leaks.

 

Edit: found and edited a pic in Paint. I used red for contrast. A small bead like indicated before you put the gaskets on, and then overlap a bit on top of the gasket. Feel free to concur or disagree.

Edited April 27, 2014 by carkhz316

[Night Fury]

^^^^I'm with this guy, that's what the GM service manual calls for, that's what I do/did. Never had a problem.

[Andrew]

x3. Thats what ive done too.

[mfewtrail]

RTV as carhz316 stated above. The only time it's necessary to use rtv & gaskets is if your intake manifold has become pitted around the coolant ports.

[Nas Escobar]

Is there any signs to the naked eye that would tell me that it's pitted? I've never seen a pitted intake, that's why I ask.

[nitehawkjcb]

I've always put sealant on the end of the LIM valley gaskets too. Pitting is very obvious, it's little indentions about the size of a pencil tip.

[Schurkey]

Is there any signs to the naked eye that would tell me that it's pitted? I've never seen a pitted intake, that's why I ask.

The pitting is visible. Looks like tiny divots eroded away from the machined surface. Worst case, the machined surface surrounding the coolant port would be "gone".

 

 

 

 

 

RTV silicone is the most over-used automotive chemical that ever was. RTV can be used to replace a gasket, and it can be used to seal seams where two or more gaskets meet. Putting RTV silicone ONTO a gasket otherwise, is silly as all get-out.

[Imp558]

I did the same on an L36, and an L67 and both are just dandy. Silicone the corners, but use high temp Red or Copper anyways.

[Leadfoot]

^^^^I'm with this guy, that's what the GM service manual calls for, that's what I do/did. Never had a problem.

 

That's what we did at the dealership on those motors as well as R and K 350's getting LIMG's. Never had a problem from it.