How to step oil leaking from the intake manifold on a Chevy II?
Question:
Ever since I was a boy, I’ve wanted to own a Chevy II and my parents made my dream come true when they gave me one as a high school graduation gift last year. The car has been great, but I do have one problem that I want to fix myself. The 327 engine has an aluminum intake manifold that leaks oil in the front and back. The leaks aren’t bad, but I like to keep my engine clean at all times and I’m tired of wiping the oil film away every time I lift the hood. I am trying to learn about the car and have changed the oil and done a tune-up, but haven’t tackled any big projects yet. Do you have any advice?
Answer:
l admire your enthusiasm and desire to learn more about your car. Oil seepage where the intake manifold mounts to the engine block is a common occurrence. First, buy a comprehensive service manual for your Chevy II. The service manual will cover intake manifold removal and installation, so I won't give you step-by-step instructions. Instead, I'll give you a few tips and reminders. Don’t forget to mark the position of the distributor before you pull it out. Do this by putting a corresponding line on the rotor, housing and intake. This will enable you to put it back in the correct position. It is very important, particularly with an aluminum intake, to tighten the intake bolts in the correct sequence and to the correct torque. Use a torque wrench and follow the torque specs and tightening sequence in your manual. Put a thin layer of sealant on both sides of the intake gasket around the coolant passage openings. The rubber gaskets under the front and rear of the manifold frequently squeeze out over time and cause the type of leak you are experiencing, so many mechanics substitute a bead of silicone for the rubber. If you decide to do this, make certain the mating surfaces of the block and intake are absolutely clean and free of all oil.
