That other style aluminum elbow you were referring to goes on the bottom of the belt tensioner. I always remove the belt tensioner and change both to aluminum, then it is good to go for a long time.
@Michael Pressman I liked to get out in the shop 3 or 4 days a week and get dirty working on assorted motors too, but there is something interesting about watching someone else do it. You never know what tricks you might learn.
I've said it once, I'll say it again... FANTASTIC video, AWESOME content, OUTSTANDING production. Keep up the FANTASTICALLY AWESOME content Ray. We will always return for more.
The fun part of this video is that it's easy to see you've done this more than a few times, I'm betting. Like they say, practice makes perfect. Nicely done.
In the UK we don't get to regularly work on American vehicles but surely the time to replace all three rear spark plugs and ht wires was when the whole induction system had been removed? As always good entertainment, I desperately want to assist Ray at certain times, my fingers itch to hold a bolt/nut/etc.
This is why your the best. Every step explained with the how's and why's with the do's and don'ts and it looks like you have customers lining up around the block... a testament to your talent and integrity.
I've watched several car Maintance videos, but only once. Rain an Ray is the go to video, because on the monologue , humorous , honest, plus a very good machenic!
I used to do a TON of those LIM gaskets, coolant elbows, valve cover gaskets, upper plenums on the 3800 series 2 engines. I haven't seen one of those cars in my area (rust belt) in years.
They could have easily fixed the few minor issues and surpassed the reliability of Toyota's 3.0/3.5 V6 and put it in SUVs and cars etc..., but alas GM is clearly run by idiots.
I've done this job several times. I always replace both 90 degree elbows so the lower manifold goes on much easier. So the other plastic elbow is now gone. One brittle elbow is always a great indicator that the other is not too far behind. I do like the way you didn't skimp on the sealing silicone on the corners that are notorious for leaks. Job well done. Ray have you ever seen that metal egr metal tube causing the upper intake plenum to warp from heat and fail? Some felpro sets have a replacement metal tube for the lower plenum that is a smaller diameter??? Thanks for your expertise with fun
That's was a great service Ray. Replace manifold gasket, change spark plugs and oil change. You forgot to show the filter installation man. I'm sure you put the new one in. Since you always remember to do your job right the first time around.
They may not specify multiple passes for final torque, but they do say 11 ft-lbs and, as you tighten one, the others aren't at 11 ft-lbs anymore. I always make it a habit to do a final torque test on everything. Better to be slow and safe than fast and risky.
I’m sorry Ray! I told Wife Unit on her channel she needed a private parking sign so she could reserve her a spot. I did not know she would put it right in front of the garage door! 😊😈
This is the most common problem with these engines, and there really hasnt been a deatailed video like thise showing the process. As a member of the MC community thank you
This is a very common engine it's good to see someone who knows what they are doing working on it,this video could help alot people just because of that size and most common engine used, nice job Ray as always you the man!!
The intake manifold bolts need sealer on the threads to prevent oil from traveling up the threads and showing up on the intake manifold under the bolts, since the bolt holes are open to the crankcase, except for the bolts on the very end, sorta like a gen 1 SBC. It does not show up right away, usually several thousand miles later.
Yep very common on these. Sad that this hack didn’t do it and will most likely have leakage in the near future. Bottom elbow should have been changed also. Just a time bomb 💣 waiting on failure.
2000 and *voice over* three. Love it, Ray I'm so happy to see you business has completely taken off and I wish you and wife unit continued success. Please keep up the awesome content.
Ray when I see you do a job like this, im just totally in awe of your skills and knowledge of so many different make of engines, keep up the great work im a fan for life
Thank you for giving me the confidence to do thus myself...I really appreciate you sharing because I can't find honest help these days...I truly thank you I've learned patience from you as well and convenience of what tools to use Thank you 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 💪 💪
Always used a small amount of dielectric grease in plug boots to prevent sticking to the plugs and anti-seize on the plug threads (especially aluminum heads) to prevent difficult removal.
Love the videos ! After watching you talk about the need to be extremely careful when installing spark plugs that are pre gapped I went and got the magnetic spark plug socket kit from matco along with the 3/8 magnetic socket set …..cause hey “ Gravity “
I have a tip for any shade tree mechanics. Do not wear wireless earbuds that fall out of your ears while removing intake manifolds. Don't ask me how I know.
Did I see Bacon Grease wrote on the tube while you was replacing the rear spark plugs I was watching this without my glasses on because I was having a migraine 😂
For those who may attempt this job, you should know that Ray has skipped what GM recommends be applied to the lower intake bolts to avoid any leakage through the threads. Permatex 59235 High Temperature Thread Sealant or it's mini version 59214 is readily available. AC Delco does have the official sealant, (GM PARTS 12346004 - LIQUID TEFLON SEALANT), but the Permatex is cross referenced and commonly used by professional mechanics. Go with whatever is easiest to get.
i did my 1999 regal GS and I did what you did silicone on the china rails and water passages. you don't want to do ii twice especially with the super charger.
Ray I really enjoy your videos so much last Friday a wind storm knocked out my power for about 5 days my was the only one to go out three tress and a pole was knocked down and a vehicle got crushed I have a jump box with USB port that how I could keep watching your videos so keep up the great work you do 😊
Hey ray. The other coolant elbow isnt for another version of the 3.8, theres another one at the back under the alternator. Judging by the condition of the front one i would replace it if the car is still at your shop. Love the videos. Keep up the great work.
I did this job on my grand prix and didn't get the coolant out blew up my engine. I have a new to me engine now same problem now I know where I failed Thank you Ray for posting this.
Torque wrenches always make me nervous.... I was using one to tighten a bolt and snapped the bolt.... caused about 5 hours extra work to remove and rebuild so now I triple check everything at work.... Great work as always Ray, I bet there are techs out here watching and taking notes
Often times when torque wrenches are set at their lower or upper limits you will not hear a click. You will only feel the give in the ratchet head; you learn that lesson once for about 3 hours…
Most spring type torque wrenches are out of calibration. Most techs don’t zero the setting after each use and the springs compressed over time weaken them and they are out of calibration.
Zo jammer dat je niet in Nederland bent met je shop, ze proberen je hier allemaal een poot uit te trekken in de garage en ik heb dan ook totaal geen vertrouwen om mijn auto er naar een garage toe te brengen zonder er zelf met de neus op te moeten staan en alles te controleren. Ik kan wel een boek schrijven over hoe vaak ze mij geprobeerd hebben op te lichten met onnodige reparaties en kosten voor werk dat helemaal niet is uitgevoerd. blijf je zelf Ray met wat je doet en je eerlijkheid, wij voorspellen dat je het goed gaat doen en wij wensen je het allerbeste voor de toekomst.
Good video series Ray Only thing left is to clean the radiator out of all the contamination and make sure it's sealed at customer satisfaction guaranteed good video as always @Rainman Ray's Repairs
Part 3 Monte 2003 ... de 7sec delay... rod and clean on RAD. upper & lower.. you best puttin T/Stat... that cooling system is FUBAR Such a beautiful monte fix it!!!!.. good job 2all Bsafe 🥶🐲
My brother just found it necessary to replace the plug wires on both of his cars with this 3.8. The Buick has around 150,000 and the Pontiac has over 400,000. I have once had a car with this series of engine and I agree it is a phenomenal platform, save for the plastic coolant pipes.
Great vid as always. Incidentally, the egr tube both disassembled and reassembled without incident as soon as they heard the threat of pry bar. Sometimes it's enough to just let them know what's gonna happen if they don't behave, as was the case here. Thanks for another hit!
I like how you describe how to install the lower intake gaskets and how to just use a bit of RTV at the corners. And then shazzam, you glob that shit all over !!!! I almost peed myself
@@RainmanRaysRepairs Yep The machines I worked on for 37 years had a similar issue on the gearboxes, just a bit in the corners. Techs be like nuh uh squirt da whole tube on there mang. If a little is good a bunch is better....lol
Also. Its easier to take the tensioner assembly off then do the lower manifold, Then re-install the tensioner assembly install coolant elbows, instead of fighting the elbow on an angle. Easier and a nice straight install....
Nice, Ray! I have to say, watching this series makes me feel I would be comfortable doing a job like that. Always hear how bad something is, fear of the unknown, would never buy one of those engines, yada, yada. Not so anymore! Thanks for what you do, but I have to ask...you talk about lubri-can't. I NEVER hear about lubri-can...please fill us in! 🤣😉
PT 1: Oil in Radiator! 2003 Chevy Monte Carlo 3.8 Manifold Leak!
th-cam.com/video/R-0lWogkyhk/w-d-xo.html
15:48 - The threat of the prybar convinced the EGR tube to go in.
Bacon grease, but of course!
What a waste of bacon grease. Silly Ray, bacon grease is for eating 😋
THREE.
That other style aluminum elbow you were referring to goes on the bottom of the belt tensioner. I always remove the belt tensioner and change both to aluminum, then it is good to go for a long time.
Replacing a manifold gasket is a lot more fun when I am watching someone else do it 🙂
3800s aren't too bad. The 3100/3400s, on the other hand...
Everything's a lot more fun when somebody else does I like getting my hands dirty have a great day
@Michael Pressman I liked to get out in the shop 3 or 4 days a week and get dirty working on assorted motors too, but there is something interesting about watching someone else do it. You never know what tricks you might learn.
@@joevk6274 every manufacturer had one of those at one point or another. Parts that only go on easily with the motor next to the car. 🙄
Damn right
That 3.8 will last a long time with proper care! It was one of GMs best engines.
Woo Hoo!! I didn't think we were gonna get a rain man video today! This is a cool surprise!
I’m out of town right now. Sry for being late😉
@@RainmanRaysRepairs Dude don't be sorry. The number of videos you do and the quality is amazing.
Must be frustrating working on junk all the time
No worries, Ray! This was an unexpected surprise!
I've said it once, I'll say it again... FANTASTIC video, AWESOME content, OUTSTANDING production. Keep up the FANTASTICALLY AWESOME content Ray. We will always return for more.
Thx Carl!
In my years as a mechanic, I have gone the extra mile to guarantee success, just like you do. Your work is exemplary. " Your the man ".
I like the "Bacon Grease" tease on the tube of dielectric grease. Thanks for another great video.
Extremely well made! Love to listen to you and watch you in action!
The fun part of this video is that it's easy to see you've done this more than a few times, I'm betting. Like they say, practice makes perfect. Nicely done.
In the UK we don't get to regularly work on American vehicles but surely the time to replace all three rear spark plugs and ht wires was when the whole induction system had been removed?
As always good entertainment, I desperately want to assist Ray at certain times, my fingers itch to hold a bolt/nut/etc.
This is why your the best. Every step explained with the how's and why's with the do's and don'ts and it looks like you have customers lining up around the block... a testament to your talent and integrity.
Finally!!! Was excited for part two!!😁 keep up the great work Ray, I’ve learned a lot form your videos
Also, I’m not a mechanic, just learned how engines and stuff work by the way you explain things, great job
I've watched several car Maintance videos, but only once. Rain an Ray is the go to video, because on the monologue , humorous , honest, plus a very good machenic!
I used to do a TON of those LIM gaskets, coolant elbows, valve cover gaskets, upper plenums on the 3800 series 2 engines. I haven't seen one of those cars in my area (rust belt) in years.
I'm still doing the LIM and valve covers on them here in Idaho. Last one I did had 330,000 miles on it.
Another job well done by Ray's Auto Clinic and Car Wash.
If that intake issue did not exist GM may have built the perfect engine.
So much for bulletproof.
@@josephbucknavage6739 They are awesome engines. Cheap to fix when they seldom break.
Valve cover leaks too though. I'd have replaced them if I were ray.
They could have easily fixed the few minor issues and surpassed the reliability of Toyota's 3.0/3.5 V6 and put it in SUVs and cars etc..., but alas GM is clearly run by idiots.
replaced with a steel gasket is the fix to the perfect engine Ive had many over the yrs Gm f#@ked up by dropping this engine
I've done this job several times. I always replace both 90 degree elbows so the lower manifold goes on much easier. So the other plastic elbow is now gone. One brittle elbow is always a great indicator that the other is not too far behind. I do like the way you didn't skimp on the sealing silicone on the corners that are notorious for leaks. Job well done. Ray have you ever seen that metal egr metal tube causing the upper intake plenum to warp from heat and fail? Some felpro sets have a replacement metal tube for the lower plenum that is a smaller diameter??? Thanks for your expertise with fun
That's was a great service Ray. Replace manifold gasket, change spark plugs and oil change. You forgot to show the filter installation man. I'm sure you put the new one in. Since you always remember to do your job right the first time around.
They may not specify multiple passes for final torque, but they do say 11 ft-lbs and, as you tighten one, the others aren't at 11 ft-lbs anymore. I always make it a habit to do a final torque test on everything. Better to be slow and safe than fast and risky.
Thanks for the training. I enjoy watching you work.
I’m sorry Ray! I told Wife Unit on her channel she needed a private parking sign so she could reserve her a spot. I did not know she would put it right in front of the garage door! 😊😈
This is the most common problem with these engines, and there really hasnt been a deatailed video like thise showing the process. As a member of the MC community thank you
This is a very common engine it's good to see someone who knows what they are doing working on it,this video could help alot people just because of that size and most common engine used, nice job Ray as always you the man!!
The intake manifold bolts need sealer on the threads to prevent oil from traveling up the threads and showing up on the intake manifold under the bolts, since the bolt holes are open to the crankcase, except for the bolts on the very end, sorta like a gen 1 SBC. It does not show up right away, usually several thousand miles later.
Yup, lower intake bolts need sealant on the 3800's...
Just did the same job on a lesabre last week. Did the job because coolant traveled up the threads on one of those bolts.
Yep very common on these. Sad that this hack didn’t do it and will most likely have leakage in the near future. Bottom elbow should have been changed also. Just a time bomb 💣 waiting on failure.
Wow the over the arm torque technic! Wife unit could learn that one. Another fine job Ray!
Love the 3800 cars run strong and forever
had to have mine replaced on my 3.4 montecarlo at 103,000 miles....great car that monte carlo
2000 and *voice over* three. Love it, Ray I'm so happy to see you business has completely taken off and I wish you and wife unit continued success. Please keep up the awesome content.
Outstanding video. You are a NATURAL and so much fun to watch! Thanks for your time!
Learning so much about engines. I had the courage to change the belts on my 2011 Escape because of your videos...not too bad for a gal.
Ray when I see you do a job like this, im just totally in awe of your skills and knowledge of so many different make of engines, keep up the great work im a fan for life
Thank you for giving me the confidence to do thus myself...I really appreciate you sharing because I can't find honest help these days...I truly thank you I've learned patience from you as well and convenience of what tools to use Thank you 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 💪 💪
Silly Ray, you can't use Bacon Grease on spark plug wires🤣 Like the WARNING Tool gravity is near sign 👍Hope your having yourself a great day!
Great use of that Bacon grease-i hadn't thought of using it that way. Can't wait to replace the plugs in my Prius and give it a try 👍
and it smells SO much better
And that way he can save the silicon grease for cooking!
Always used a small amount of dielectric grease in plug boots to prevent sticking to the plugs and anti-seize on the plug threads (especially aluminum heads) to prevent difficult removal.
You give me a lot of hope rainman. ❤
Love the videos ! After watching you talk about the need to be extremely careful when installing spark plugs that are pre gapped I went and got the magnetic spark plug socket kit from matco along with the 3/8 magnetic socket set …..cause hey “ Gravity “
Thanks for letting us look over your shoulder.NJ
Ray you are the MAN. Thanks for showing the repair on this particular engine. One repair no one ever wants to do!
Love the 2000 (3) voiceover correction Ray!!!!
I have a tip for any shade tree mechanics. Do not wear wireless earbuds that fall out of your ears while removing intake manifolds. Don't ask me how I know.
I use noise cancelling Work tunes by 3M. Hopefully they will make one with usb-C instead of micro.
Great video the only thing i do different is put the rear spark plugs in with the plenum off makes life so much easier ,
Love the subliminal 3 you snuck in the beginning 😆
thankyou Ray,an enjoyable part 2,,have a great family break,,,👍👍
I'm the same way. Maintainance is on time or early. I usually use AC Delco or NGK spark plugs.
Did I see Bacon Grease wrote on the tube while you was replacing the rear spark plugs I was watching this without my glasses on because I was having a migraine 😂
Great info. Easy to understand .Thank you
A+ for remembering where all the blots and connectors go and fittings and everything all in its correct place A+ well done 👏👏👏👏👏👏
I have never had a comeback for using extra sealant
For those who may attempt this job, you should know that Ray has skipped what GM recommends be applied to the lower intake bolts to avoid any leakage through the threads. Permatex 59235 High Temperature Thread Sealant or it's mini version 59214 is readily available. AC Delco does have the official sealant, (GM PARTS 12346004 - LIQUID TEFLON SEALANT), but the Permatex is cross referenced and commonly used by professional mechanics. Go with whatever is easiest to get.
Good job Ray I can tell you have done this a time or two.
As a shade-tree mechanic, I'm the same way with spark plugs. AutoLite/Ford in the Ford and Mercury and NGK/Denso in the Hondas the family owns.
I love it! Bacon grease seals everything! 🤣🤣🤣
i did my 1999 regal GS and I did what you did silicone on the china rails and water passages. you don't want to do ii twice especially with the super charger.
You seemed to be a whole lot more happier running your own business your a great mechanic good video like always
It's nice to see a man enjoy his job
I love watching you perform magic Ray. You’ve Come along way and soon, 500k. Congratulations. 👏👏
Ray I really enjoy your videos so much last Friday a wind storm knocked out my power for about 5 days my was the only one to go out three tress and a pole was knocked down and a vehicle got crushed I have a jump box with USB port that how I could keep watching your videos so keep up the great work you do 😊
Good day to you Ray and Happy Saturday. Looking forward to this video.
Hey ray. The other coolant elbow isnt for another version of the 3.8, theres another one at the back under the alternator. Judging by the condition of the front one i would replace it if the car is still at your shop.
Love the videos. Keep up the great work.
I did this job on my grand prix and didn't get the coolant out blew up my engine. I have a new to me engine now same problem now I know where I failed Thank you Ray for posting this.
You’re so careful and precise, as if the whole world was watching you and critiquing your work. Nice Job.
I hope that Ray, the Wife Unit and the kid units have a great weekend away!
He only said HE was going away. We shall see.
Just Ray
@@wifeunit Quiet weekend for you. Did he go for the sticker suggestion?
@@wifeunit well then I hope that you and the kids are having a nice weekend in while he's out of town.
@@hot_wheelz I wonder if she'll drive his truck if he left it home.
I'm not a mechanic, but "back in the day", Champion Spark Plugs were top sellers (1960-70s).
I love it when you say what his problem cracks me up
Good afternoon, Ray.
Nice mid afternoon video.
Now I know another use for Bacon Grease. Thanks Ray.
Torque wrenches always make me nervous.... I was using one to tighten a bolt and snapped the bolt.... caused about 5 hours extra work to remove and rebuild so now I triple check everything at work....
Great work as always Ray, I bet there are techs out here watching and taking notes
Yeah, it's a real sinking feeling to feel the bolt approaching torque and then you feel the resistance start to go away as you turn it.
Often times when torque wrenches are set at their lower or upper limits you will not hear a click. You will only feel the give in the ratchet head; you learn that lesson once for about 3 hours…
Most spring type torque wrenches are out of calibration. Most techs don’t zero the setting after each use and the springs compressed over time weaken them and they are out of calibration.
Zo jammer dat je niet in Nederland bent met je shop, ze proberen je hier allemaal een poot uit te trekken in de garage en ik heb dan ook totaal geen vertrouwen om mijn auto er naar een garage toe te brengen zonder er zelf met de neus op te moeten staan en alles te controleren.
Ik kan wel een boek schrijven over hoe vaak ze mij geprobeerd hebben op te lichten met onnodige reparaties en kosten voor werk dat helemaal niet is uitgevoerd.
blijf je zelf Ray met wat je doet en je eerlijkheid, wij voorspellen dat je het goed gaat doen en wij wensen je het allerbeste voor de toekomst.
Good video series Ray Only thing left is to clean the radiator out of all the contamination and make sure it's sealed at customer satisfaction guaranteed good video as always @Rainman Ray's Repairs
Another Ray's excellent adventure !
Really pleased your business has clearly taken off, Ray. Best Wishes from the East Midlands, UK
You can't fool us with a late morning release Ray ....we will find ....watch.....like the video and then smash that subscribe
Part 3 Monte 2003 ... de 7sec delay... rod and clean on RAD. upper & lower.. you best puttin T/Stat... that cooling system is FUBAR Such a beautiful monte fix it!!!!.. good job 2all Bsafe 🥶🐲
Great work Ray. Keep it up.
What a pleasure to work on such a clean engine!
I like Bacon Grease, great video. You and family have great weekend.
My brother just found it necessary to replace the plug wires on both of his cars with this 3.8. The Buick has around 150,000 and the Pontiac has over 400,000. I have once had a car with this series of engine and I agree it is a phenomenal platform, save for the plastic coolant pipes.
Great vid as always. Incidentally, the egr tube both disassembled and reassembled without incident as soon as they heard the threat of pry bar. Sometimes it's enough to just let them know what's gonna happen if they don't behave, as was the case here. Thanks for another hit!
The Monte Carlo owner is a lucky person hey hey hey!
They've taken care of that car. For the age of it. The engine sounds really good
Should have done the rear bank of plugs when you had the manifolds off.
Ray you are the man I really enjoy your video I start doing mobile mechanic you teaching the right way to get job done it have help me thank you
👏👏👏👏for part two of Monte Carlo. See you on part three for the radiator flush, it’ll be another great video
Great video... just bought a t-shirt from your shop! Wobbly bits lol
Part of the upper intake where there’s like a coolant passage also can wear out and get oil in the antifreeze
I own an 2001monte Carlo ss these cars run so strong if you take care of them 3.8 has so much power.
Makes me miss our 1997 Pontiac GTP. I loved that car! Unfortunately Illinois road salt claimed that one!
I like how you describe how to install the lower intake gaskets and how to just use a bit of RTV at the corners. And then shazzam, you glob that shit all over !!!! I almost peed myself
Ohhh no, I’ve seen folks use the whole tube in one sitting 😂
@@RainmanRaysRepairs Yep The machines I worked on for 37 years had a similar issue on the gearboxes, just a bit in the corners. Techs be like nuh uh squirt da whole tube on there mang. If a little is good a bunch is better....lol
Remember guys......Spring back, Fall foward. Doodly Doodly Do.
Also. Its easier to take the tensioner assembly off then do the lower manifold, Then re-install the tensioner assembly install coolant elbows, instead of fighting the elbow on an angle. Easier and a nice straight install....
I changed the transmission gasket on my 3.5 . When I torque bolts down . Scares brown logs out of me. You do it with speed and confidence.
The door is NOT ajar... it's a door!
😛
Ray's special Bacon grease for all the bacon lovers..yum nice video Ray..All the best from the U.K.
Great video as usual and also great choice of music as always too 😄 Linkin Park forever
Nice job Ray.
Me and my dad call champion spark plugs misfire specials as they never seemed to even work straight of of the box . Always use oem spec or NGK
good job well done ray!
My 07 Grand Prix had an intake gasket leak. I understand the pain with some of these
Nice, Ray! I have to say, watching this series makes me feel I would be comfortable doing a job like that. Always hear how bad something is, fear of the unknown, would never buy one of those engines, yada, yada. Not so anymore! Thanks for what you do, but I have to ask...you talk about lubri-can't. I NEVER hear about lubri-can...please fill us in! 🤣😉
When it comes to GM engines and sealant, the bigger the glob, the better the job!