leaking antifreeze 2000 alero

[tom]

I have 3400 engine in 2000 alero (V6 of course). Been having problem with my antifreeze leaking, So I assume the lower intake gasket again(which I have already replace 6 years ago with no problem) but this time after I replace it I notice coffee color oil (antifreeze getting in the oil). So figure I must have done something wrong so I replace the lower intake gasket again making sure I tighten everything with correct torgue. Still the same problem, if not worst. I took the front valve cover off (because I didn’t see any coffee color from the back valve cover last time) to see if I can see where the antifreeze is comming from, I can see the the coffee color oozing on the top of the 2 center pushrods and rockers not quite from the gaskets itself (from what I can see) and white steam comming valley (or between the two heads)and notice bubbling on the bottom (not sure if that is normal). Not really into replacing the head gasket, but before I do, I want to make sure first.
Thanks
P.S.I do have pictures and video if needed

Topic

[Mathieu]

How a machine shop know the cylinder diameter It should be ?

[EricTheCarGuy]

Water is a natural byproduct of combustion so that’s not conclusive when it comes to head gasket diagnosis. The block test IS conclusive however. Now that you have it apart, that clean cylinder is a dead give away of a combustion leak into the cooling system. Good luck and keep us posted. I’ll post this video here just for good measure.

[tom]

I finally got both cynlinder sides off, I only broke one bolt for 2 pipes connecting the exhaust manifold pipes under the heat shield. The problem I have cleaning out the thread of the heads. I try using the loaner tool from autozone (OEM/Thread Restorer Set), the nuts seem to fit the bolts,but nothing fits in the threads of the heads to clean it out.

Attachments:

• P1000915.JPG

[EricTheCarGuy]

You might need a different sized tap or drill and tap the hole to a larger size. Keep us posted.

[Author]

Replies