Re: Intake Gasket Failure Question

Jack L. Spratt wrote:

> My understanding is GM claims that the DexCool coolant is responsible
> for intake Gasket Failures.

No, GM does not think that Dexcool has anything to do with
gasket failures.  The intake gasket failure is due to a poor design
that relies on low clamp loads and the fact that a technician
ought to know how to torque bolts and use loctite in these
particular applications.

> My understanding is also that the intake failures have been happening
> since around the mid 1990's.

Intake gasket failures on GM 60 degree engines have been happening
since they started making the engines in the mid 80's.  When they first
came 
out in
the X-bodies and A-bodies....we  were doing intake gaskets all the
time.  Same problem.....coolant would get in the engine oil.  Different
style of gasket....same basic end result...coolant in oil.  There has also
always been a problem with oil leakage from the RTV end gaskets.
This is due to two problems.....poor preparation of the surfaces by
the technicians....and the fact that RTV gaskets will inevitably leak
no matter what you do.

Ian