'BAD' GM 3800 L26 V6 Engine Teardown. Why Are These Engines SO GOOD?

[@JnP-Restorations]

You’re welcome Eric. You will get all of Premiers core engines you want. 😂love watching the tear downs. I did find out an update yesterday from the customer. This car had sat since 2015 when they bought a new Camaro. Thats almost 9 years of contaminated oil sitting in the crankcase. Lol. I did drive it in the shop and it ran remarkably well. This grand prix got a very clean used 3800 with 101,000 miles. It had no signs of dexcool destruction like this one did. Keep up the awesome content. 👍

[@I_Do_Cars]

Premier automotive, ladies and gentleman. Check out his channel!

[@stevecunningham2759]

Thanks Premier!

[@someguywithaphone5921]

Big thanks to Premier! 3800 sits for 9 years, Dexshaked, and still putted into the shop? Geez, that's impressive. Still wish they'd bolted a 6 speed to it, especially in that Supercharged Buick. Heard there's a mod for a G6 trans, but that's the internet talking. Cheers!

[@mphilleo]

Thank you for your contribution, Premier!

[@TestECull]

See if you can kick some carburetted iron Eric's way!

[@Ronaldl2350]

I have been a GM technician since the mid eighties. Those engines where a actual joy to work on. One of the best engines GM ever made

[@jerrysingleton4956]

Question. 2y ago I bought a 91 Buick Century Custom had 58,000 original she has just over 80,000 now for $700 & a grenade'ed engine 2000 ranger. She has the 3300(204ci)I was wanting your opinion of this engine version of. And any quirks to look out for & any preventative mantiance if any for said quirks. I fully enjoy driving & tinkering on her & have about another $600 put in the usual starter, alternator, brakes, water pump, exhaust, tires. Thank you if you respond.

[@871jamie]

Under powered junk!!

[@jimdent351]

It's too bad GM used DexCool in the 3800s which ruined the engines prematurely mine was a 2000 Buick Regal. It's also too bad that the owner's manual in the 2017 GMC Canyon says to change the oil when the DIC instructs you to. That too is a big mistake. I have religiously changed the oil on my 2017 Canyon in accordance to GM's recommendations. At 180K km (112K mi.) the 3.6 is now being rebuilt because of engine knock. The technician says the oil looks like it was never changed. The only really good vehicle I've owned was a Toyota Sienna. GM? Never again!!! The Issues he's uncovering in this video is because of the DexCool BTW!

[@jimdent351]

@@871jamie I wouldn't say mine was under powered but it was certainly junk. In 2000 those 6 cyl engines were pushing 200 hp. I think GM lost a class action lawsuit because they pushed DexCool coolant which ruined the engines. Now GM is pushing their version of a synthetic oil which is ruining engines when you follow the recommended oil change intervals. I'm done with GM. The 5300 that was in my Sierra was bulletproof but it was everything else that was garbage. The only good vehicle I've owned since the year 2000 was a Toyota Sienna.

[@chrisbraswell8864]

My uncle has a middle 60's GMC truck that had a v-6 is their any relation to the 3800.

[@thebigstig34]

My old shop foreman said “The 3800 will run badly longer than most engines will run, period” lol

[@chaseleim4773]

He didn’t lie, had one rpthrow a rod bearing drove it around clicking and clacking for two months

[@thebigstig34]

@@chaseleim4773 Absolutely insane, lol. I keep hearing stories like this and it’s just hilarious

[@JohnK-ph3vw]

My dad used to say similar things about the rwd 231, 350s, 305s, does 300, and many others. He retired in ‘97 after being a mechanic for 30+ years, and his almost savant-like knowledge of late 40s-late 80s engines is amazing.

[@Wtrxprs007able]

Here in aus, we know that these can run like dogs arse but still live for years on end, but when they start running perfect is when they're about to blow

[@collinmckinney6952]

I once drove mine for 50 miles without an oil drain plug after going into a shop for an oil change. That was 70k miles ago. No problems. I do my own oil changes now.

[@peterarsenault2671]

These friggin engines were EXCELLENT!! Velvety smoooooth that felt like a small V8 in my Delta 88 front wheel drive. Probably one of the best "feeling" engines under my foot.

[@notyourtypicalchad6778]

The series II GM 3800 has two primary weaknesses: the intake gaskets and the two 90 degree angled plastic coolant bypasses that often crack and fail. The intake gasket failure gives the false impression of a blown head gasket/cracked head or block. The two plastic 90 degree coolant elbows cause coolant loss that can result in overheating. If you overheat a 3800 engine, you will at bare minimum blow a head gasket, but more often than not you will warp or crack a head also. If coolant ends up getting compressed in a cylinder, you're going to end up with a bent piston rod and the engine will be JUNK. They sell an aftermarket aluminum pair of 90 degree coolant elbows that eliminates the weak plastic elbows and some tensioner/coolant bypass assemblies delete the faulty elbows completely. The key for a 3800 engine to last FOREVER is to NEVER overheat it. Keep your coolant fresh and well serviced. Replace the waterpump at about every 100k and make sure the radiator and hoses are in good condition. Considering you should replace the timing chain at 100k, you would do both chain and water pump at the same time...or push your luck that the car will fall apart before the general recommended maintenance is done. Those 3.8L engines can be found in many 90's thru 2000's model GM sedans and the Camaro/Firebird V6 equipped platforms from 96-02. When I replace a bad 3.8 engine, it is usually because of those plastic coolant elbows failing and overheating the engine to catastrophic failure. When I install a good used 3.8L, I always replace the two plastic elbows and install a new thermostat. While doing that if I see any crud in the coolant I flush the block.

[@donnyb3452]

Where are these plastic elbows located? I can buy an 2003 Park Avenue Ultra for a decent price, but I would immediately swap these elbows for the metal ones.

[@notyourtypicalchad6778]

@@donnyb3452 do a search on youtube for "GM 3800 Cooling System Elbow Replacement", and it will show you where and how to replace it. Also use the aluminum elbow upgrades instead of the plastic ones.

[@digitalrailroader]

@@donnyb3452you can see them at 6:54 due to them being attached to the alternator bracket; it’s actually fairly straightforward to replace them.

[@LowEnd31st]

@@donnyb3452it’ll be obvious to see if they’ve been replaced with the metal ones. If that car has over 100k there’s a chance the elbows and intake gasket have been replaced

[@Yophillips3272]

​@donnyb3452 I would just get a newer one with a series 3 if someone twisted my arm to buy another one. That way you have less overheating problems, I mean everything else is probably even less quality 05+ vs. 2003 though.

[@TheWolfiet]

for an engine that looks like it was lubricated with drilling mud, I am impressed. I think you could swap all the gaskets, throw it back together with a new water pump, and run it another 200k.

[@wesmyers734]

@hwes47 Had 3 Buicks from 1983 to 2008 with 3800’s. Best vehicles I have owned.

[@notyourtypicalchad6778]

They could have flushed to block without even removing the heads, installed new intake gaskets(after clearing the crud out of that blocked passage) and that engine could have lasted indefinitely.

[@Mis73rRand0m]

almost every old GM v6 i've met has had intake failures that get misdiagnosed as head gaskets. As long as they aren't run for too long with coolant in oil, a flush and gasket refresh is often all that's necessary. 2.8's, 3.1's, and 3.4's usually mix oil into coolant but not the other way around fortunately.

[@DIE2dayORelse]

@@Mis73rRand0myeah those 3.4s are not as good they remind me of the Honda 1.5s for some reason like an underpowered cheaper version of the real thing

[@ericcampbell3418]

​@@Mis73rRand0m Very informative comment and I agree very good engine. I think I'm going to start thumbs downing and even reporting all the silly comments that are just arguments between posters

[@avrggamer69]

The good ole 3800 GM should definitely study this engine cause they haven't made anything more reliable than this motor

[@christinesommerfeld9815]

The 3.6 that replaced this gem of an engine was strong but had a 2008 Caddy CTS and it had timing chain woes.

[@metalted6128]

Haven’t made? Not true!!!

[@JohnK-ph3vw]

350 (5.7), 4.3 and the 3.8. The MOST reliable engines GM has made in 50 years. Parts aplenty, strong and reliable.

[@JohnK-ph3vw]

@@christinesommerfeld9815I’ve got a 2010 Malibu with the 3.6l. 209k, I’ve put 50k on it. Only complaint (other than it’s a Malibu) is the oil it burns due to the poorly designed PCV system. Haven’t touched a thing other than replacing the alternator and I’m replacing the struts and sway bar links shortly.

[@peterpeter5666]

dont undestand why gm stop making this motor ? too reliable? they needed more engines that fail?

[@97delkron]

"push the pull rods out"... thanks for the chuckle. 3800's are up there with sbc and ford's 300 for most reliable engines ever!

[@JaceJackson]

Damn I came here to say the same thing thing “pushed the pull rods out” 😂😂😂

[@RickinICT]

The first time it played, I didn’t even catch what was wrong, but something in my head said “wait, what?” and I had to listen to it twice more before my brain finally caught the reversal.

[@ronb4992]

We had three 2004 VY Commodores series II in the family and my grandaughter is still driving one. I did all the servicing and never had any engine problems other than oil in the coolant and vice versa. Yes those mongrel intake manifold gaskets failed on all three after 10 to 12 years and 160k kms approx. All were using specified GMH (green) coolant when gaskets failed. Apart from that the 3800 LN3 engine as it was known in Australia was bullet proof with good power and economy. Cheers from Western Australia.

[@elliotkane4443]

Probably going to be more VYs left over than VZs with that rubber band timing chain on the 3.6 they have. I've got one sitting up near Tamworth NSW, 4 door crewman, $4,000 and its yours no questions asked, none answered, lol.

[@ralphwood8818]

I have a 06 Pontiac Torrent with 207.000 miles on it. The 3400 seems flawless. I have a Australian Jackmaster Classic oil cleaner on it. It has a Toyota transmission. It has a Motor Guard oil cleaner on it.

[@rogercallewaert895]

VY is ECOTEC not 3800 the last 3800 was in the VR

[@callumfindlay696]

@@rogercallewaert895ecotec is the Buick 3800 series 2

[@callumfindlay696]

Yes I had a few commodores and very reliable apart from intake manifold gaskets leaking coolant. I just blew my bmw engine and I’m thinking about a ecotec swap…

[@rainfieldmusic]

Just shy of 400k miles on my 06 Lacrosse series iii 3800. The engine ran great when i junked it. The body and everything else was rust rotted. I bought another one with 100k on it, its my daily highway cruzer.

[@denniss5512]

Had a 97 LaSabre with a 3800.My Mom bought it new and gave it to us at 22K miles. There was a recall on the plastic manifolds due to Dexcool eroding them. I replaced that and a couple of water pumps and a set of spark plugs in 240K miles of use. Ended up giving the car to a newly single mom I worked with who needed a driver. She drove it 3 more years until it went into a winter ditch. I bet that would have easily made 400K miles.

[@johnleinen7167]

No, the egr valve exhaust gas flow would melt the intake.

[@mattcat231]

​@@johnleinen7167Yes, the EGR "chimney" was too large in diameter and would melt the intake right next to a coolant passage, the fix was a smaller diameter "chimney" and it seemed to work.

[@jblyon2]

@@mattcat231 Aunt went through 4 of those updated manifolds. It definitely didn't work, it just made them take longer to fail.

[@catsaregovernmentspies]

I had several Series 2 3800s, the EGR stovepipe melting into the coolant passage in the upper intake was a definite problem. I had a Dorman replacement with the "upgraded" design fail, too. I go good at replacing the UIM, but the first one that failed on me ruined the engine before I could figure it out, and I even took it to a dealership for diagnosis and they couldn't figure it out.

[@deutsch-amerikanisch8281]

@@catsaregovernmentspies Piss poor diagnostics from the dealer, it a common issue and the symptoms are well know for the Series 2 engine. All they had to do was remove the throttle body and they would have easily seen it.

[@joecifelli1253]

I wouldn't be surprised if you cleaned the water jackets and replaced the gaskets that engine would do another 100k. The bearings looked very good consider it was lubricated with antifreeze.

[@edifyguy]

I agree! This is a good builder!

[@bigdogpete43]

Just drain it fix the leak and fill er up.

[@edifyguy]

@@bigdogpete43 It probably would have been fine with just that, before it was disassembled so far.

[@Haulinbassracing]

Glycol is a synthetic lubricant i shit you not. Its used in nitro fuel for rc cars

[@charliejohnston1978]

One of the crank main journals was messed up. At least a crank polish job for sure and new push rods, etc.

[@lincolnherzberg1866]

The build up in the coolant system is from mixing non dexcool compatible coolant with dexcool. Have been through that mess several times back when GM first used dexcool. It usually doesn't get that hardened up but it plug up the coolant system. There are also signs of low coolant mixture giving me the assumption that the car was poorly maintained or at least not properly. What did amaze me was that with all the coolant system blockage; the head gaskets weren't blown. As for cracked heads, the 3800 was known to crack between the valves especially when under extreme heat. Also the mixed coolant is what ate up the intake gaskets and caused the water into oil. Have seen this catastrophe several times in my 50 years working on cars and trucks

[@Mis73rRand0m]

Here in AZ people think they don't need antifreeze because it doesn't freeze... until their intake gaskets cause a multi-thousand dollar head gasket misdiagnosis. I've saved many pocketbooks from doom thanks to familiarity with diagnosing GM v6's over the years.

[@lincolnherzberg1866]

@@Mis73rRand0m I can't even imagine the nightmares that creates. But, knowing how people think and where they get logic from. I can believe it

[@Wtrxprs007able]

I was told by former gm techs (Holden mechanics) here that this era of iron block gm engines were meant to use a little dissolvable tablet (genuine gm tablets too) in the coolant system to prevent that sort of build up and rust. If they actually worked, is anyone's guess.

[@andrewlace]

In Australia we ran green coolant from the factory. No issues 😂 that tablet was an anti coolant leak tablet. Use at your peril heater cores can block it corrode. All the issues with cooling/heating should be mitigated by changing the coolant frequently. Being that these engines are old and given the red death 😐

[@arvbergstedt3303]

Flushed my 3.5 several times with distilled water. Pumped through the heater core and block by dis connecting hose. Now has 10 year 300k Prestone. Will change again in 50,000 miles. Dexcool is crap.

[@McCullochMac6]

Our 2001 Grand Prix GT had 288,000 before it had the valves started to go...still ran great.. but the blue smoke at stop lights was funny.. God I loved that car....

[@arnoldschmidt2753]

I found this video excellent for learning about what's involved in the dismantling of the 3800

[@OperatorIHC]

Holy cow, you found a bad one! What a treat! Ohhhhh... Diagnosis: Dexcool.

[@stevenbaker5099]

Dex-Clog

[@kalybnielsen4183]

​@@stevenbaker5099 Definitely Dex-Clog. Antifreeze that eats plastic and rubber that the intake gaskets were made of

[@StevenRotskas]

ive got an 2000 camaro with the 3.8 at 332,400kms. runs like a champ. leaks oil from practically all bottom end gaskets. but its whatever, only thing ive done to this engine was a set of intake gaskets,steel coolant transfer tube, and swapped it back to green coolant, i bought the car at 260k.

[@markhull5776]

Exactly what I just made a comment on! Dex Cool was the worst idea for coolant ever. 2-EHA was the organic acid in that coolant that caused this.

[@ohiopower]

Yessir. It's what killed my 3.1 2000 lumina.

[@davelowets]

2.5 years ago, I put new headgaskets in a 3800 that had just as much coolant in the pan as this one had, and it's still running perfectly fine today. No bottom-end noise or ticking at all. My customer drove it until it overheated and shut down. I don't know how long all that coolant was in the pan, but it was FULL, just like this one was. TOUGH motors... 👍

[@IKnewMickey]

It's tempting to buy a second car with one of these 3800s. I like comfy cruisers like Buicks.

[@EarlSinclair97]

I miss my old '95 Regal with the 3800 Series 1. Rode and drove nice, easy to service, cheap to maintain. Too bad it rusted out after nearly 20 midwest winters.

[@EBIndy]

Get a Buick Lucerne with the 3800. All the advantages of the series iii with the best possible package.

[@michaelkrenzer3296]

I have the worst example of a running, driving final gen Park Ave Ultra....still excellent. Go in eyes wide open on all the other stuff that fails...the 4T60E and 4T65E are the weakest link other than rust. Next in line is GM's electrical challenges...the era determines which is worst, the wires, boards or charging. Still love them. Late LeSabre is the sweet spot for low price, high reliability.

[@tatialo37]

Buick Le Sabre is my favorite car!!! Can't find a decent one in Puerto Rico!😢

[@dougrobinson8602]

The highway mileage of this engine with the four speed auto is incredible. Over thirty MPG easily. One nice thing about these cars is that if you can find one that was senior driven and well maintained, they are perfect for long highway commutes. Well equipped for the period, and rides like a dream.

[@LulaRoberts]

I got 400.000 miles on an 1985 Oldsmobile Delta 88 four-door door. A solid engine for a lifetime.

[@JeffBrown-fc1lx]

As a soul who has run these (buicks) for forty years off and on, you've opened my eyes to the guts of one of the wonderful historic American engines. Never was able to kill one. Never blew a head gasket. Bravo, dude. Thanks !

[@TheMotorick]

My experience with the 3800 was in my 1994 Olds Silhouette. True to your intro, everything in that minivan wore out except for that bullet proof engine. I will always think of it as the best, most reliable engine I've ever owned in my 67 years.

[@redallaround66]

i believe when gm used the l26 as a base to make their 3800 l36 V6 off, that was the best, having all the strengths of the l26, changing to sequential ignition and setting up acouple more sensors, paired with the 4l60e, they were awsome. the el36 that is in my vy has almost hit the 600,000kms and still going strong

[@captainkirk4514]

I had 1995 Olds Silhouette with a 3800, yes the engine was great, but one of the worst vehicles I ever owned. Transmission, after transmission. Broken exhaust manifolds. Electrical issues galore, all within the firsts 2 years of ownership. We couldn't finish peeling the rind off the lemon. We dumped that POS and found a GMC Safari van, with the 4.3 vortec, that was one of the best vehicles we have ever had. Put nearly 350,000 miles on it over 15 years before we finally had to retire it. My wife still misses that old tank.

[@waltchan]

@@captainkirk4514 Glad to hear you didn't buy Japanese after the POS Olds, and you gave GM another chance. Most people would do that easily.

[@mysock351C]

Finally, a classic 3.8L! Seen these live through things no other engine could, like running for extended periods of time with no coolant (only complaint was "no heat"), coming back to life after locking up from no oil, etc.

[@jinezawa7089]

My first car was a $300 2002 regal. I'm ashamed of myself now, but back in high school I was an idiot with little money to spare. I ran that thing prob 30k miles without an oil change (just topped it off when it got low) and ran it to the point of overheating and shutting off on the highway when the plastic coolant elbow went. One metal replacement coolant elbow later, it ran another 10k miles before my roommate hydroplaned it on the highway going 70 outside toledo (car was totalled, but he was fine) And yes, I am MUCH nicer to my cars now

[@jimbothegymbro7086]

I'm still driving my daily that's got one in it, it's done 8 laps of the planet and the only issue is a blown exhaust manifold gasket but it's only gunking up the starter so I wipe it down with a rag from time to time

[@76629online]

These engines are undoubtedly, the very best engine that General Motors ever made. I have worked on lots and lots of them over the years. This one here appears that it was probably a one owner that was short-tripped most of its life and probably neglected. When it started losing water, uncle Rico started cramming Stop leak in it every week until it finally shit the bed. I wouldn't have even torn down the short block, I would've rolled it out on the driveway and pressure washed it clean and threw a gasket set at it and headed out down the road with it.

[@danielwynne8547]

The biggest mistake GM ever made because they are indestructible. I had them in several of my cars. I now own a Buick Encore with a 1.4 l Ecotec. It has 91,000 and has a bad reputation. Buick downsized to the point an average American can't drive it comfortably or haul even a regular shopping trip of groceries. 😢

[@brucepowell7986]

actually the 283 v8 and the 3.4 v6 are better

[@Vwcumminsrocker]

​@@brucepowell7986 Yeah, the 3800 had a stupid plastic cooling connector that run under the intake manifold which was often plastic. 283's were way better in every way

[@toddaulner5393]

​@@brucepowell7986, 3400 are terrible. Look it uo!

[@zephead4835]

Hands down the small block Chevrolet V8 is the greatest engine GM ever made although I will say the 3800 is a good motor as well.

[@MegaPoxie]

I have had 3 of those engines and they all ran faultlessly, my mate stuck one in a jetboat and my boss put one in a Merc van to replace the factory diesel, blown up with petrol, and it is now the best Merc of 3 he has! Very reliable and east to work on, horrible to see one abused from neglect!

[@JHargraves1182]

I had an 08 Lucerne with 150,000 miles with the series 3 3800. I ended up selling it when the transmission started to act up, the engine purred and I’m sure it would’ve gone another 300,000 miles. They were so reliable, smooth and efficient. Best engine GM has ever made!

[@SkSKSK283]

I had an 06 with the same issue. Stock transmission went out at 150. Ended up swapping a used one and driving it a little longer but the air suspension was fucked and rust started catching up so i ended up junking it

[@SteveLowe65]

Lower intake gaskets fail on these - especially if coolant is neglected. A lot of customers would think they had a blown head gasket, but it was almost always an intake gasket. We called it "dexcool death". One my favorite cars I've owned was an 05 Grand Prix GTP. I love that engine.

[@ryurc3033]

If it just started, and didn't get driven too far with coolant in the oil, makes for an easy fix. Did a 2000 bravada that started white smoking, they assumed had a bad head gasket. But after intake gaskets and an oil change, it ran perfect for the last 4 years. Doesn't always work out that way, but I got lucky.

[@ericknoblauch9195]

The plenum gaskets fail too on the ones with the plastic intake plenum.

[@arthurcunningham530]

Another tribute to Dex Cool Antifreeze. Guaranteed the owner had a problem with the overheating because of no water circulation and steam build up pressure eventually blew out intake gaskets

[@ericknoblauch9195]

I had one fail on my 2003 Impala LS, and I wasn't running with Dexcool antifreeze. Had the gasket replaced, and the lower intake then failed. Also had a 3.8 engine in a 1980 Malibu. That 1980 engine had metal intake, and never had a problem. I still see that Malibu running up to this day. The problem started when GM released the series II 3.8 V6. The series II had plastic plenum intake. GM knew there was a problem, and revised the series II towards the end of it's life cycle, and came out with the series III engine. The series III had a metal plenum. I also have a 2006 Ford with the 3.9 Essex V6, and have never had a single problem. The 2003 Impala was sold many years ago because there were too many problems. My 2006 Ford probably will outlast me.

[@slvrktman7824]

F GM for not fixing this problem for years. Proto-type crap for the general public to test fr them is bad enough…but failing to remedy it really sucks. You would think they would give a shit about their reputation!

[@rhkips]

That engine is absolutely rebuildable! Honestly, it's in far better condition than about half of the 3800s I "flipped" back in the day.

[@billyjoejimbob56]

Bought a new '95 Bonneville with the first year 3800 Series II engine. Was smooth, quick, and got great highway fuel mileage. Always well maintained. Somewhere over 90K miles, it developed a sudden internal coolant leak. It acted like a blown head gasket. A coworker who was a GM trained technician said "10 to 1 odds that the plastic intake plenum has broken thru to a coolant passage." He was right... it was a common problem, at least on the earliest series II engines. I was lucky we caught it early. Coulld easily have destroyed the the engine. Replacing the plenum was fairly cheap. For the next year, I had an endless string of check engine lights and sensor failures. Finally had to replace the ECM. Sold the car to that co-worker who could fix everything himself. He had to replace half of a leaking AC system, and rebuild the transaxle. Good new car, did not age gracefully.

[@79mule]

I had an almost identical experience in 2004 with a 1995 Bonneville with just over 100 k. On a hot August day, 1000 miles from home, intake manifold gasket failed. Had repairs done at a GM dealer-they really hosed me good! They also forgot to install the PCV valve. Car made weird whistling sound the whole way home. A month later the dash lit up like a Christmas tree, I drove to a Honda dealer, traded on a Honda CRV and vowed I was done with GM cars. Now I’m done with their trucks too. Bought a 23 Tacoma last year.

[@billyjoejimbob56]

@@79mule Have had six Honda vehicles in the past 20 years all 3.5L V6... still have four of them. Had an Odyssey that ran well when traded at 200K. Currently driving a 2013 Accord that looks and runs like new at 138K... Tires, brakes, 2 batteries, oil changes and filters plus a timing belt as recommended preventive maintenance.

[@repatch43]

My brothers first car had one of the last series 1, and my first car had one of the first series 2. There was a bunch of differences between the two engines, but what didn’t change was how bloody solid they were. We both got over 400k out of them before we got new cars. We went Subaru, and boy was that a mistake. I’m now on year 17 of a Toyota matrix and while the 1.8 in that one doesn’t hold as much nostalgia it sure has been a tank, over 340k and only now am I bumping into a little bit of a rough idle when very cold issue. Given everything else going on the car (clutch is on its last legs, steering rack is rattling, and a couple other things) it might be time soon to retire it. Still, I miss my series 2 3800, was such a pleasure to work on. Seeing that timing chain brought back memories

[@jmjimbo]

I wonder if all the coolant blockages were from massive amounts of stop leak

[@timothysmith7034]

Nope. Just garbage DexCool Coolant. If not flushed, or allowed to sit, the additives separate and crystallize, turning into something that makes Bars Leaks blush.

[@swoopulater]

nope, eric explained it pretty well. Dexcool is one of the worst coolants when it comes to cooling system failures. If you own a GM you can guarantee it HAS TO be serviced on a regular basis or you'll get that. Dexcool has excellent heat tranfer properties but when the manual says to change the coolant at certain intervals you should REALLY pay attention to that. Of course that goes with any engine really. As soon as i saw those clogged intake ports that was obvious no doubt, the coolant had never been changed nor had the cooling system flushed out EVER from the looks of it. I'm sure sitting for 4 years didn't help much either, i'd say that was the death blow to that cooling system ;o)

[@randyarock]

Dexcool AND Bars StopLeak tabs?

[@DS-ss7vl]

That wasn't just Dexcool.@@swoopulater

[@patrickmorrissey2271]

Yeah, I kind of agree.... That looked like some stop leak had been tried, and then they kept driving it for a little bit.....

[@ericn3221]

I worked with a friend in the 80's that had an 1987 Delta 88 with the 3800. He and I took it on a business trip from Atlanta to Ocala and I drove with the cruise set on 90 for probably 70% of the drive. That engine was unbelievably smooth and fuel efficient considering the speed I was driving and we still marvel today at how enjoyable that car was on the highway.

[@josefeibl8230]

The 87 wasn't a 3800. It was just a 3.8 that didn't have the balance shaft that made the 88 on up 3800 not shake itself to death.

[@josefeibl8230]

Best thing to do was get rid of Dex-Cool as soon as you got a vehicle that had it. Highly corrosive garbage.

[@jimbothegymbro7086]

I still daily the L36 ecotec version in the Holden Commodore, the rest of the car is falling apart but the engine itself runs smooth, and I'll probably swap it into a car with a dead 3600 once the chassis rusts out because it's so good

[@knurlgnar24]

@@josefeibl8230 1987 did have some 3800 engines toward the end of the year so it's possible.

[@privatedata665]

The Buick 3.8 was an unreliable turd . When the 3800 was released it changed everything and there were no more common mechanical problems in the engine platform . There were some " Sunday built" engines that became oil burners because the piston bores were not cleaned before assembly , I came across 2 of them . TAC identified both as Sunday engines and the TAC person told me it was a somewhat common problem for a short period of time . We replaced many water pumps , coolant elbows and intake manifolds but they are all "bolt on" parts . We also had plenty of "Snow Bird" clients that would drive to Florida for the winter and many claimed 30-31 MPG in a Park Ave or Lesabre . The 3800 is quickly becoming a popular swap into S10 trucks , basically making the Truck GM should have offered .

[@NoConsent33]

Those Engines are amazing for any entry level mechanic to learn with. I had one and over time it went from smaller pulley supercharger to turbo beast. Folks have figured all the weak points in the engineering. With a few searches online anyone can make a very reliable Turbo'd 3800 with 400+hp. That 3.8 from 2000-2004 is a fun one to make some noise with. If you're into 6r's.. . I remember getting almost 30mpg on trips with a cruising tune. Taught me a lot about pcm's, power curves, superchargers, turbos, and methanol/water injection. There is a kid in my neighborhood who still drives it. I sold it to his father when the kid turned 15... The dad told me he was going to tear it down and clean it all up, and teach his son how to maintain a car. It was great, they lived a few blocks from me. The father called me after the sale and my heart sunk when I answered.... But all he needed was some help with the laptop that I gave them to do all the tuning. It was very cool. I went down to their house a handful of times to lend a hand... like i said, I still see that car scootin' and whistling round the neighborhood. I think I would really like working with salvage autos. This is the first video I have seen, going to check some more out!!

[@adambasher2148]

Commenting from Australia. I own two GM cars made in Australia with 3800 Buicks in them. This video was brilliant. Preaching to the converted when talking about the reliability. One of my engines from 1989 has 70,000 miles on it. The other on from 2002 has 160,000 miles. Both are running fine however the high mileage one is the best because it has been maintained perfectly all its life while the 1989 model had a 6 year hiatus and was not looked after till I acquired it in 2018. Oil changes and coolant check are really all these engines need even if abused between services. That’s my comment I will keep ‘I Do Cars’ in mind if I need parts even though postage to Australia is expensive I’m sure this shop seems honest and trustworthy.

[@nthgth]

(American here) What cars are they? I didn't even know those were used in Aussie made cars. Holdens, I assume? Commodores?

[@adambasher2148]

@@nthgth Holden Commodores. Good cars for the wrong time.

[@nthgth]

@@adambasher2148 gotcha. The few years we were lucky enough to get the Commodore here in the states, it was already too late for the 3800

[@GP1138]

Gotta pay respects to the 3800! I have owned so many of them and they are dependable and unkillable! Like tearing down an old friend here.

[@barrybeckford2733]

Had a 93 Buick, 33mpg fully loaded with children, trunk full. 80 to 90 mph to Vegas...used no oil, 200,000+ miles...transmission failed. Amazing motor!

[@rogerdirks947]

Yep, those engines will haul ass and sip gas gently at the same time

[@waltchan]

If driving only 55 mph max, it gets up to 42 MPG on highway.

[@thedirtybubble9613]

That's crazy how did you get 33 mpg going 80-90 mph ?

[@1320pass]

Bought a new daily driver 2000 Camaro with a 3800, still sitting down back, rusty crusty underneath, took it off the road for safety concerns. The engine with 250k miles runs perfectly, still. Never just putted around. I ran it hard. Original 4L60 trans too believe it or not, I did some valve body work and a vette servo when it was brand new as a preventative thing. Actually changed fluid and filter often. No problems. Loved that car and would buy the same car new today if I could. 3800 series 2 is legendary. Most major repair was the intake gaskets at around 150k with this one leaking to the outside which I got lucky there. Replaced those plastic coolant pipes also on the front of the engine. They made metal replacements for those. Dorman I think. Great video👍

[@nthgth]

Shame about the rust but yeah it was great they put these in the F-Body as the base engine for the final few years. More power than some 3rd gen V-8s, plus fantastic reliability and efficiency, can't go wrong. I'm thinking the 4L60e also made it this far partly because it's normally meant for V-8 torque so yours has had a relatively easy life

[@neild6722]

I had a 2003 Monte Carlo SS (purchased new), the 3.8L V6 was the standard engine in the SS model (standard Monte Carlo engine was the 3.6L) and was an excellent engine. If memory serves correct, there was a GM recall on the intake manifold gaskets for replacement back in the day which was done before any problems arose. It was a strong, reliable engine and got exceptional mileage.

[@dorothyriegert8958]

my 94 Bonneville has 310,000 miles, and still still runs clean, and strong. Only changed the water pump, upper intake , and lower intake gaskets. New trans at 140.000 miles.

[@waltchan]

Most Toyota Camry easily last longer than that. 140K with a new transmission makes this only an average car.

[@THEFlea1991]

@@waltchanSpeak for yourself. My 98 Camry trans went out at 110,000. Head gaskets at 120,000. Spun bearing at 140,000. Biggest POS I’ve ever owned. I babied that thing, too.

[@waltchan]

@@THEFlea1991 Agree. More MPG = Less Durable. Most Toyota and Honda vehicles don't offer the maximum durability, they're just only incredibly reliable for the first 10 years, that's all.

[@LulaRoberts]

The transmission do not hold up on 3800.

[@ericknoblauch9195]

Upper intake and lower intake gaskets were a common problem on these. I had one, and the mechanic I took it to to do the gaskets did the job in no time at all. Easy to do and work on. I was running this engine with the old green coolant, and took out the Dexcool. Without the Dexcool the gaskets still failed. I had the series II engine. The intake plenum was plastic. The series III had metal plenum, and updated intake to stop the intake gaskets from failing. I also had the first series in a 1980 Malibu. The first series had no gasket issues. The 1980 Malibu was sold to a local person many years ago, and I still see it running to this day 44 years later.

[@09corvettezr1]

For any owners of a GM 3800, those last two electrical connectors which Eric left in each side of the block tap right into the bottom of the water jackets, if you wish to avoid a failure like this, they can be removed from the block with a 22mm socket. This can prove helpful in the event you want to perform a very thorough flush of the cooling system.

[@1320pass]

Good to know, thanks. I think those are the knock sensor(s)?

[@09corvettezr1]

@@1320pass yep, oddly enough the knock sensors tap into coolant.

[@madogmabz]

I used to remove the knock sensors on old commodores to do a proper coolant change you would have to get a screw driver and pop it through all the rusty sludge to get them draining.was the only way to do a proper coolant flush on these motors.I found if you didn't the new coolant would just turn brown again

[@EarlSinclair97]

The 3800 Series II was excellent, after the intake gaskets & upper plenum were replaced.

[@Xxanity_]

They're also excellent in rwd format on limiter shredding tyres 🤙🏾🫡

[@kingnull2697]

Luckily, they're not that hard to reach.

[@matthewshea1]

I was just thinking the other day how much I'd love to see a 3800 taken apart here and, whaddya know, Eric delivers! This totally feels like a belated Christmas present. My first new car was a '00 Monte Carlo SS with a series 2 3800. I loved that car, although it did have to get the intake gaskets changed under a recall. I took good care of it, then sold it to my dad who, in turn, sold it to a friend of his and I've seen the car still on the road as recently as 2020. (I know because it had a very distinctive scape on the rear bumper). Great motor and great video. Thanks a ton, Eric. Your videos are always the highlight of my Saturday night.

[@scottysgarage4393]

It's not merely one of the best engines GM ever made, it's one of the best engines anyone ever made.

[@dcarden3031]

Over 300k and still kicking

[@NonoNonaa]

The ford 4.6 would like a word with you.

[@scottysgarage4393]

@@NonoNonaa The 4.6 V8? You can't possibly be serious. Fairly dependable but stupidly expensive to repair and nearly impossible to modify for any meaningful gains.

[@NonoNonaa]

@@scottysgarage4393 What repairs? I'm very familiar with both motors and I have seen multiple 4.6's go 500k+ with literally nothing except maintenance. the 3.8 is a very solid motor but it is surrounded by gm trash accessories that fail far more often and often runs like shit thanks to its very unreliable emissions equipment. not to mention that the 3.8 is transverse mount only and fwd cars are 🤮🤮🤮. crown vics/panther platform cars are going up in value. can you say the same of ANY 3800 powered car? 🤣🤣

[@NonoNonaa]

@@scottysgarage4393 also....there are bolt on superchargers for the 4.6 my dude. and you can cam them very easily. i've thrown an aggressive cam in a crown vic before and did it in a weekend. you're just a stodgy old man that can't understand anything that isn't a pushrod motor 😂😂

[@DaniaBeech]

This guy is so pleasant to watch and listen to. I subscribed just to have him playing in the background while I work in the office. Wonderful voice and perfect personality. Thanks buddy!

[@tigerwolf9781]

I have 3 cars with the previous version in my Holdens. I love them ALOT. My Holden VX Calais 3800, my Holden VS Wagon 3800 and a Holden WH Statesman 3800 I have owned 7 all together. Nothing is easier then keeping these engines alive. And they take our Aussie burnouts like a charm. 😂

[@rossbrumby1957]

I was given a vn or vp left on the side of the road and it actually drove on the trailer but shook like a bastard. Something to do with the balance shaft out of timing.... crap motors. Were good at blowing welch plugs in the vn, coil packs failing and crank position sensors cutting out when hot. Later ones timing chain trouble and sludging up one valve cover oil gallery. Yeah, great motors.

[@steven44799]

All the mangs, they sounded much better with the m90 supercharger whine.

[@alexjohnward]

They did do those at high mileage, I've dealt with all of those too, still unreal motors. ​@@rossbrumby1957

[@mysnackr]

Great video. My 3800 has 230k miles in a camaro 2002. Love this engine and glad you were able to record this teardown!

[@ronkemperful]

My grandmother had a blue 94 Buick Park Avenue with this engine. I drove her big car from Denver to Washington State while getting 32 mpg at 75 mph. Unbelievable that GM walked away from this engine... it was fuel efficient, smooth, quiet, and reliable.

[@PopePlatinumBeats]

while ultra reliable.. it wasnt quick at all....thats why GM went away from it

[@engineerisengihere44]

​@PopePlatinumBeats no, they stopped making it because people weren't buying new cars. If your engine oulives you then you won't ever have to go to the stealership and buy a new one again. Hence why they stopped using the indestructible 3800 and started using the disaster-prone 3.6

[@yafois988]

I’ve been looking at this engine / car combo to maybe get one for reliability reasons. I learned from you, a LOT of imperative maint points to perform once I acquire one. The idea theses cars with the 3800 engine, that can go 200K~400K miles is tremendous satisfaction have quality like this.. I. Redo the intake Gasket. 2. Replace Water pump & gaskets. 3. Replace the plastic coolant line pieces with after market metal pieces. 4. Will need special tools to Remove water pump and associated parts. 5. Do our own work of these tasks early on, for lengthy trouble free operations. NOW, the secret is obtaining a car with LOW miles on it, so we can do the preventative maintenance on the engine. Before the owners neglect it (as usual) making things bad for the engine. From watching you Disassembly and watching Car Wizard mechanic channel too, The task to perform our own work looks quite doable, for a backyard mechanic here. Your and CW channels are worth a million bucks to us out there, thank you guys much for the wisdom.

[@4000inbound]

Some of the most fun I have ever had was working on my first car with a 3800. Hard to believe it has already been 20 years. I did a top end rebuild with a larger cam, yella terra roller rockers, valve springs, a simple valve job and decked the head by 50 thou to bring the compression ratio up, bored out the throttle body and port matched it to the elbow. Deleted the balance shaft. Had a mild steel exhaust. It came alive. 150kw at the rear wheels and 15sec over the quarter mile.

[@mysock351C]

I think what makes these so reliable, along with a lot of the SBC's and SBF's, is they didn't put all that bullshit inside they have now. Just had two heads, valves, timing set, a cam, some lifers, pushrods, pistons, rods, crank, and that was about it. Not much to go wrong.

[@MiGujack3]

Even DOHC isn't bad when it's done right. The Toyota UZ/UR and Ford Modular V8s prove this. It all started to go downhill with direct injection, EGR and sensors in every single place and the worst of all: WET TIMING BELTS. Your car is doomed from the factory.

[@Bpf1893]

Less moving parts and makes it easy to trouble shoot and repair.

[@hokie9910]

Please lord, bring back the 350 SBC and the 3800 V6. We all promise to be better people, just bring them back. PLEASE.

[@Orionhntr03]

Every Saturday night that you upload a video, it has become mandatory watching in our household. My family absolutely loves watching these videos. I have learned so much from watching this channel. There isn't anything that you need to change in what you do. Everything is perfect. Thank you for everything that you do. Please keep it up.

[@brucejones7389]

Enjoyed this teardown because I did the intake gaskets on a Series II 3800 in my 2000 Monte Carlo SS I used to own and it was cool to see what this engine looks like on the inside!

[@mikebinkley2866]

My daily driver is 2004 Park Avenue with 473000+ miles, lovin' my naturally aspirated 3800

[@flhTK-2012]

I appreciate the Autolite comment. Many years ago I sold auto parts for a living. I had an old timer mechanic customer who'd say the same thing anytime he was offered Autolite plugs: " I don't want no damn Autolite plugs... They oughta light ...but they don't!" R.I.P. Bill Brye.

[@richsarchet9762]

It is hard to believe enginners at the same company designed the 3800, the Northstar and the 3600. How did they lose their way so badly?

[@MiGujack3]

Management says make it cheaper and use more plastic.

[@kalybnielsen4183]

They try to say it's for emissions standards, they have enough modern smog techniques to handle that even using variable valve timing like they used on the pushrod Vette's. A lot of it is people are so delusional that they feel "An old motor runs rough", they won't even give it a chance, if car A is using a pushrod 12 valve V6, it definitely won't be as good or smooth as car B that has a 24 valve DOHC engine. Less is more in most cases, engineers get there and they have to make things their own, they don't want to be the guy that improved an engine, they want to be the guy that designed something all new

[@hokie9910]

It’s all about planned obsolescence. The big 3 just stopped caring about their customers. So many people have left and gone to Honda and Toyota never to return. I am one of them.

[@waterloo123100]

@@kalybnielsen4183It definitely has to do with emission standards. The government doesn’t even want manufacturers to use a gas engine anymore

[@kingnull2697]

@@waterloo123100 "The beatings will continue until emissions magically improve. ". . . No, we don't care all those premature failures & associated pollution, name be damned."

[@morley3810]

I've owned 3 of these. A 2000 GP GTP, and 2004 GP GTP, and currently my daughters 2008 GP. Her car has "only" 200,000km on it. It is the most mechanically silent engine I've ever heard. So smooth, so good and cold winter starts, relatively good on fuel for a big car, even a decent unique sound. They are truly excellent engines.

[@nthgth]

Love these. Drove a friend's mom's 2002 Monte Carlo once many years ago, only time I've driven a 3800 but I remember LOVING the power delivery. That thing was quick! Felt like it anyway, and that's more important than _being_ quick anyway. If I were to get an automatic second car I'd start by looking for one with this engine (or a Lexus)

[@Nicole-dj3jf]

Have a 3800 grand prix same year had to change water pump the lady didn't take care of the antifreeze it was brown I mean brown well I'm getting no speed it will kick in then slow down then speed up there's a sensor next to the air box someone said needed to be change does this sound like my problem or a transmission problem it doesn't slip it ran fine all summer then bam this crap happend it wasn't low on Trans fuild and it looked kinda dark pink no smell so I'm hoping it's that sensor please give me some advice please the part is 100 I believe the little metal wires got dirty when the air filter got changed

[@jeffreyevens2033]

This engine is legendary. I enjoyed the teardown more than watching football. Thanks Eric!

[@jaybee006]

Currently driving a 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix GT with the 3.8. Bought this car as theft deterrent. Just to sit in my driveway after both kids left for college and keep away the rampant break-ins in my neighborhood. Drive it only to keep battery charged but it is always a pleasure. Handles great, plenty of pep for passing. Not going to win any races but it gets 20mpg around town and 30 hwy. Not bad at all.

[@richardmunn8903]

Great video and I love your humor. I just got me a 1998 Olds Intrigue GLS with 102,000 miles on it. The interior and paint is perfect. Looks like it was garaged for at least 20 plus years. I smelled coolant and started replacing things, power steering pump, water pump, tensioner pulley, then intakes. Found a lot of bad previous mechanic, halfassed, stuff done to it. The LIM had some of the dexcool acid working on the aluminum. Winter has returned so I am waiting for warmer concrete. I paid too much for it but now it will be like new. It actually ran well before I started on it even with the noisy pulleys. The smell of coolant... I have been in a learning (School) for 3 months now, studying all things 3800. So, no car payment and I own it it, so I guess money invested, hopefully well spent. Parts are plentiful and cheaper than my Avalon (1995 with 185,000 burning old), I am ready to get rid of as soon as the Olds is finished.

[@BrainDamageBBQ]

In the mid 1990s, I put a 1985 Buick 231 V6 into my 1980 Chevrolet Chevette. The thing started right up and idled silently and silky smooth. I took it out for a drive... and it was easily the most terrifyingly fast car I have ever driven. It did 12.8 seconds on the quarter mile. With Chevette brakes. Hit the gas too hard and the body would flex so much that the doors would pop open. Mash on the loud pedal and the Chevette's stock 4.11 rear-end grenaded. Fiero front calipers and rotors? Improvement. Narrowed Ford 8.8" rear with limited slip? Improvement. Streetable pocket rocket? Getting there... but still terrifying. And to think I had planned on going full Grand National replica engine... LOL. Hooker offered the motor mount kit and the headers. I love the Buick 231/3800 V6. Eric, make a playlist of Engines Known To Never Die. Buick 3800, the Ford 300 you tore down. You've got to do a Chrysler Slant-6 - wait until you see the forged crankshaft in one of those things!

[@timlee4204]

Thank you Eric for this teardown it was interesting as here in Australia GMH (Holden Australia) began fitting these 3.8lt engines to our Holden Commodores in 1989. Our Holdens were rear wheel drive so the engine sat the other way. The early ones sounded harsh and it was found that the cylinders were in line across the Vee, which increased the internal friction by 10% by having a kick in the rod to line up with the crank throw. I am guessing this is what you termed a 60 degree Vee because the later ones solved this problem by having the cylinder in line with the crank throw. One thing these engines were known to have trouble with wear on the cam shaft lobes. Otherwise they seemed to be good engines. Toyota Australia arranged some swapping and re-badged Holdens came on the market as Toyotas but this only lasted a couple of years, they probably thought they could do better. I bought a 1991 Commodore in 1999 and had it for 5 years, towed a caravan (trailer) around Australia in 2004. Traded it for a 2001 V6 Toyota Camry in 2005, this 2.9 engine could pull that same caravan at better speeds using less fuel??? I had that Camry 18 years without spending virtually anything on it. Ran it on Liquid Petroleum Gas most of the time. Keep up the good work. Ted from Down under.

[@davidsolah7440]

Yeah I remember they were pretty harsh. I think Holden did a lot of work to make it a bit better m Balance shafts?

[@dra911]

That would be the Toyota Lexcen! Remember the Holden Apollo? That was a rebadged Camry. There was quite a bit of badge engineering going on around this time because of the government wanted to make the industry "more efficient." Now there's no industry at all. Oh well.

[@timlee4204]

@@dra911 The government was pressuring Toyota to have 30% Ausy parts. My brother had 1970 Toyota Corona and it was the Ausy parts that broke down, he followed that with a fully imported one and had no trouble with it. Yes neither of them make cars here any more, trouble is we have priced ourselves out of the market.

[@LouKodge]

I have had a 1996 VS commodore that had over 400klm and was still going strong when sold. I now have a 2002 vx commodore and a 2004 VY, both with 2nd generation 3800.. Besides intake gasket replacing, nothing ever goes wrong. Do my oil changes every 7000 klms. Minimal oil use and no rattles. Completely bulletproof.

[@billyjoejimbob56]

The original uneven firing version of this V6 had two con rods on each crank journal, beng based on a V8 block, so.the "stagger" of left vs. right cylinder bores was minimal. The next improvement was an even firing crankshaft with six rod journals, requiring some space between adjacent con rods. So the con rods had to be offset, not centered in the pistons. This problem was solved in the series II engines with a redesign of the block casting that added more stagger between cylinder banks, enabling con rods to again be centered in the pistons.

[@1969Risky]

I've got the L36 Ecotec V6 in my 2003 GM-Holden VY ute & these were the best engines going around. They take such a beating. Plenty of parts available over the counter at the auto shops. I've seen These engines in worse condition but the best part is that they powered so many Holden Commodores & only owners stupidity will lead to failure. Loved the teardown. I wish GM-Holden never got rid of it. The LY7 & LE0 V6 that replaced the L36 are a dog of an engine but after learning on those, I've got everything down pat. Excellent video. Cheers from Australia.

[@PGU13BHEI]

I got 338K out of my first one, and it was still running like new. Buick GS. The second one had over 200K, Pontiac GTP. It was perfect too.

[@mdquaglia]

I owned two. A 1997 GP GTP supercharged. Had to get rid of it, because the engine had too many problems around 60k miles. Alternator. Water pump. Second one: 1999 Bonneville. Ran it from 20k miles to 90k miles problem free. At 90k it cost me $2.5k to fix. Cracked intake manifold among other things.

[@TonicofSonic]

Had one of these in a 95 Buick lesabre. Forget the engine, I drove over a curb straight on at 45mph with no damage and hardly felt a thing. That suspension was daily driving perfection.

[@napoleontheclown]

I had an '03 Grand Prix and ran *over* a roadkill deer at 60 mph (nowhere to go even if I had seen it in time) and the only damage was an exhaust bracket that was repaired for $25. As Eric said, the engine was going strong while the transmission was... not.

[@nickf5204]

Had a 92 Lesabre and it was a tank, suspension was perfect for cruising around w 6 people in the car

[@wxdave5448]

Thanks for this teardown. I had the 3800 in a 1992 Buick Regal GS. Loved that car and engine. Even by 2006 it was still a nice, simple engine.

[@jeffreylyons1531]

Put one of these in my fiero, it was a series 2 supercharged from a Bonniville ssei. Was a great motor, the biggest thing holding it back was it loved to detonate/knock, and even with methanol injection and e85 it would knock at around 400hp. But it lived for years running it pretty hard.

[@pakjohn48]

I love reading these praises for the GM 3800. My Australian 2010 Holden Commodore has one and I'm pretty sure it's my last ever new car (I'm 76 yo and retired long ago). It's only recently that I read the specs and was amazed to find that it also has 4 valves per cylinder and VVT. Along with DOHC and GDI makes this seem quite advanced for it's time.

[@factsnofiction217]

Orange and green don't mix, draining the water oil was green, head area was orange that will do it. One of my customers had a coolant leak at the coolant level sensor for a 1000 miles or so said he just added what he could find at the gas station. Shortly after his car was overheating. I pulled dip stick and milkshake. I suggested engine replacement but limited funds so he said can you fix this one. Yeah but I'm not going to guarantee it he was fine with that. Replaced intake, gaskets and radiator and flushed engine with diesel. Didn't even do head gaskets because he didn't have the money. this was around 2002-04 I still see the car in traffic.

[@metalted6128]

Holy crap!!! You found one!!!! Proof that any individual can ruin anything!!!

[@gregorylyon1004]

The series 3 is a junker. 2003 onwards

[@MrWill-ng8dg]

Fun to see you tear this one down Eric. Your assessment and market value comments are always spot on. I've had several 3800s and a 3100 all very well liked despite some intake manifold gasket issues. I had a 3800 hydro-lock on me at 190k miles, and even though it probably could have been repaired like yours the local wrecking yard sold me one with 80k on it for $450. So I swapped the engine, and put another 60k miles on it before having an accident, but the engine was still going strong.

[@tylerf8967]

Thank you Eric and Premier automotive for this teardown! I honestly wouldn't be surprised if this engine would run many 100s of thousands of miles with new intake gaskets, water pump, and a good flush of the cooling and oil system. These engines are super simple and just last aside from intake gaskets and plastic plenums on the series 2. Would still love to see a 60° GM v6 if you ever get a chance!!

[@chrisbraswell8864]

Leaking water pumps.

[@BrandonFlint-ro2ns]

As someone who owned a Buick with this engine I can absolutely speak to the fact that they do indeed outlast the transmission. The transmission went out but the engine was still running strong. My mom's car also had this engine which had 260,000 miles on it. Frame corrosion is what killed that one. These engines are absolute tanks.

[@suprafastmafc]

What about the sbc 350? My dad had one in his 69 pickup, and he routinely ran it dry of oil like it was his job. 350k miles, sold it, still running fine. I have one in a 7000lb 3500 with over 350k miles. Still runs great, no leaks. Even the 4l80 mated to it functions flawlessly with no leaks either 🤷

[@gwick358]

Eric, you might be a bad mechanic (not true from your actual mechanic videos) but you're an excellent automotive mortician!😂🤣✌❤

[@2dogsmowing]

I seen the post also. Lol I started to laugh at reading it. Jealousy is a hell of an emotion. Lol

[@dogshome7110]

He don't make 'em look pretty though!

[@nthgth]

"automotive mortician" lmao very apt 😄

[@lukabelojevic9940]

Can confirm 3800 never die. Have a 2000 impala since new with 3800 NA, thing went through two continents(USA and Europe atm), urban city driving, open roads, highways, winter roads, anything i threw at it. It even overheated once and to this day it still runs like a champ. 20 years in my family and 20 years more, i promise you that!!! Love it.

[@haircut2015]

I aways like that car as very big inside & the invincible 3800. Just a no brainer.....

[@gamerdrive5565]

I’ve run one with basically no coolant or oil for about a week at a time, multiple times, it was almost permanently in the red on the temp and got the shit beat out of it, for science. Was works car and the boss is a scum bag, thing never quit, I’ve killed a few of these for less but when you get an exceptionally strong one, it only gets stronger with tactical abuse.

[@barrya.6212]

What's the mileage at? / odometer reading?

[@ThunderAppeal]

And how many miles on that piece of garbage do you have today?

[@ThunderAppeal]

@@barrya.6212 Probably 85k miles.

[@madrew2003]

I wouldn't call those "splayed bolts" but "cross-bolted" mains. Small block chevy race engines routinely add splayed outer main cap bolts to original 2 bolt cast blocks and that's a different thing entirely. Love watching your tear downs! Good fun and interesting stuff.

[@carrsllccarrillo6507]

Love this video! I bought a used 98 Grand Prix with 80k on the clock last year. In a month's time the original 3800 series 2 engine was ticking at first then it was knocking. I end up buying a used engine for $200 that had about 120k on the engine. Additionally I spent about another $700 worth of new replacement parts (knock sensors, oil level sensor, bolt kit, etc) including a master gasket kit. Spent a total of 67 hours from removal, cleaning, resealing and installing the replacement engine. Overall I'm quite satisfied with the job as nothing is leaking everything is running smooth. I took it on several long trips last year and I gotta say after putting another 10k on the odometer the car is averaging between 25mpg-26mpg. I do mostly highway driving since I travel for work. I love the car and I love that engine! Wish it was a GTP but maybe that's something I'll look into for another time but for now I got my hands tied now that I'm in process of restoring a '91 GTA Trans Am. The old block, well I'm keeping it around so I can rebuild that one and possibly install it into a another W body, someday.

[@cb750rider]

I had an '06 Grand Prix with this engine (plastic plenum) for about 18 years. It was easy to work on. Actually, I think that was a favorite quality of that car. The engine did have some gasket issues (intake manifold leaking coolant) at around 140k, but other than that top-end rebuild and regular maintenance, the engine didn't need much. The car was still running fine when I sold it at 182k. Thanks for the content!

[@dev10199]

Great content as always. In Australia, these engines are often referred as 'mangs' ( based on the noise at redline). However ,sadly many have passed before their time due to accidents with kangaroos.

[@kickazz999]

Thx Dundee😊

[@richardpaz8035]

What does mangs mean??

[@Jasman35]

​@@richardpaz8035using valve bounce as a rev limiter, or I assume that's what mine does every day, it loves it

[@jamesb1221222]

@@Jasman35 The dodge caravan says "VAN VAN VAN VAN VAN VAN VAN..."

[@johnmoore8599]

Thanks Premier Automotive for this core! That engine took a lot of abuse and still the bearings stayed intact pretty much! Looks like the timing system was bulletproof too!

[@MajorOutage]

Had a '99 Bonneville. Can confirm, car rotted out around this legendary motor. Still purring as the junkman drove it onto his flatbed. Also fun fact about the Buick V6. GM at one point sold the design and tooling to Kaiser-Jeep, THEN BOUGHT IT BACK when they folded. It also shares lineage with the (in)famous Rover V8.

[@-oiiio-3993]

I run a Buick / Kaiser 225 'Odd Fire' in my flatfendered (titled as '46) Jeep. Kenne Bell equipped, MSD, too much carb, fat headers... . Windshield down, goggles and a grin.

[@beavistechrock]

I had a 99 sse as well. Put it in reverse at the gas station one day and the front cradle ripped out of the mounts cause of rust. Welded it back in, then the brake lines all the way back went. I gave up and scrapped it.

[@MitchelYoung]

I’m a retired mechanic and in the 90,s and early 2000’s I “loved” the 3800 because of the intake manifold coolant internal leaks. They helped put my kids through college.

[@jbhornbeak]

My last one had 381,000 miles on it and was running when I parked it. My current one just turned 200,000

[@HappyHands.]

When i used to work for FireStone i saw a lot of these engines. Couple of common repairs were tensioner pulleys and water pumps. It's clear someone added a silica stop leak to the cooling system

[@slocavky]

Ah gotta love gm dexcool coolant when it mixes with other types. That stuff sucks so much and I cant believe they still use it..

[@stevenbaker5099]

The Dex-Clog

[@syloui]

Deathcool

[@boosted4runner86]

We have the same engine in Australia 🇦🇺 just a different setup with the manifold and sump. They call them ecotecs over here. I have one in my 4runner that i turboed and goes quite well for a v6

[@mdgmasterchief6617]

I drive 2005 monte carlo 3.4L runs like a clock at 184k miles. Owned for 9 years, changed oil every 3k.

[@markmcgrath9098]

In Oz, these were used in GM Australia’s Holden Commodore. Starting ‘88 we got the uneven fire version with code L27 iirc. In the early mid 90s they swapped to a split pin crank to even put the vibes. I’ve got a 1990 commodore wagon with the early motor and T5 gearbox. Did about 20k km in it last year to work and back and aside from needing to keeping vital fluids topped up it just goes and goes and goes.

[@John.0z]

Thank you Mark. I was wondering if this was the engine in a company car I had - a '94 Commode, with IRS and extra-capacity fuel tank options no less! I did not have it all that long as I was head hunted to Singapore; but it was a fine car. Much better than a later example I drove.

[@3800S1]

Small correction, we never had an odd fire Buick in Aus, Buick went split crank somewhere in the early 80s. In fact the only difference in crank shafts was the LN3 which was the last of the rope main seals, the introduction of the L27 in 1990 to the last v6 ever made all had the exact same crank shaft despite many people thinking they where different.

[@rogerdirks947]

The split rod journal crank for even fire engines was introduced in the late '70s in the USA. I know 'cause I rebuilt one of each back then.

[@kwakas4ever]

Totally agree. Had a manual VT and no problems whatsoever in 200K km. Decent grunt too. Loved it. Thanks Eric!

[@3800S1]

@@rogerdirks947 Thanks for the correction, I was taking a stab in the dark with that one as we never got any of the Buick stuff (except for the straight 8 post war) here in Aus until the introduction of the LN3 in 1988 coinciding with the launch of the 2nd gen Commodore platform with the VN model. The introduction of the Buick V6 into the Australian market completely changed Australian motoring for a very long time. I knew the split crank came in early at some point years before the 3800 series was born. But I don't know a lot about the V6 prior to the 80s. Cool to know they went even fire so long ago, I had the impression it was a bit later on.

[@johndcunninghamjr4111]

I always loved the 3.8 L Buick engine. The ones from the 70's and 80's did have a problem with oil return leaking at the rear from the head gaskets, most technicians thought it was a valve cover or gasket or the valve cover itself,but it was the head gaskets. LOL That motor you had there had two problems, one lack of proper service and GM's famous cheep intake gasket problem. Improper oil changes and Dex Cool clogging do to not servicing cooling system. 😊

[@razghost2]

Hey Eric, I've been religiously watching your videos for 2 years now and I've just finished replacing a head gasket on a VW PD 2.0l TDI, my first time doing something other than a service to a car engine though I have rebuilt motorcycle engines. While it was a daunting task I found as I started it I was seeming familiar with the process despite never doing it before and I believe I have your teardowns to thank for that so I thank you. While there was no malice in the combustion place I did have to remove the crank bolt which involved a lot of breathing on it after a very hot mexican. That crack when it came loose was one of the greatest sounds I've heard.

[@collinsdaley378]

The 3800 was definitely a strong motor and definitely a GM best. My dad had a 2005 Buick lesabre custom and was his commuter car for years. He use to commute from holtsville Ny to Longisland city in queens for years...a good 70 plus miles one way. I was in between cars in 2012 and needed a ride for a few weeks till i got another car. My dad agreed to let me drive his lesabre that was sitting on the side of the house for the last year prior...just driven around the block even now and then during that year bc my dad purchased a honda odyssey new. I sat in the lesabre and to my aw he had 498,000 miles on the original 3800 motor and transmission. I was shocked but not surprised. I dont think any car is maintenance free, but if you do the common flaws in the 3800....that car would last you a lifetime. Another good thing is now these cars are cheap and parts are not too bad so you can get a cheap 1st car or a get around car for not that much money

[@stevegordon5243]

The 3800 was a great engine! I had 3 of the Series 2, once which was supercharged. Had to change the upper intake manifold on a couple of them but other than that they were great engines that had good power and fantastic gas mileage. I wish GM still offered them in their cars

[@Danzilly]

Sad to see this one let go! Mine in my 08 buick lucerne runs perfect!

[@lordcorgi6481]

After GM retired this engine it was all downhill. Now you have GMs with failing engines and transmissions with less than 10k miles 🤣

[@jonboatmorava9115]

I bet quality control is one.of the biggest factors. I could be wrong but if people that assemble the motors are as sorry as the people I've been training lately there's no way any of them have been built with any care.

[@moklock]

Yea my ‘04 truck had a LM7 5.3 which was unkillable for the most part too. ‘14 truck has one that I’ve had great luck with (167K knock on wood) but many have ate their cam and lifters. Another engine they had about perfected then messed it up

[@paulwinnetou4560]

many makers turn into downhill abyss

[@safn1949]

We had a V6 Firebird blow-up coming off the truck at the dealership I was working at, I think it was a 1985. They forgot to torque the rod caps, kabang, and a clunk , clunk. Same dealer, the sales manager went around a corner in a new Chevy Caprice and the center bolt failed in the rear end, tire and axle off and running. Good times.

[@irishuwould5185]

That’s all companies now, not just GM

[@zoomiesRMS]

For those who called it, we're all legends. As much as GM pisses me off with their new stuff, the 3800 is a monster for what it is 🫡

[@deanfarr3249]

The 3800 and 4.3 5.3 and 5.7 vortecs were the best ever motors GM has made in history

[@Grrrr-q5c]

214k still goin strong on mine. Gaskets were leaking so im doing a rebuild. Very reliable, not super efficient, but are simple and get decent gas mileage. I also like that they’re cast iron. Means they’re machinable and dont warp easily.

[@PapiDoesIt]

I think I recognize that sawdust in the coolant system. It's one of those GM coolant sealer pucks; sometimes they are dropped in at the factory at the time of assembly/testing. I tore my old truck down for scrap last month and it had a ton of that sawdust stuff inside the heater core. GM used those little pucks for ages long before the aftermarket "stop leak" appeared.

[@Volkeith_hauler_of_stone]

I had a 99 regal with the 3800, bought it for 500 dollars with 320k ran it to 670k and then sold it for 750 dollars I wouldn't be surprised if it's still running

[@jeromefrady794]

There was a recall on the 3800 where you put thread locker on the throttle body nuts and put a pack of coolant sealer tablets in the radiator. That's most likely the cause of that water passage being blocked up.

[@davidpowell3347]

Was that the "pills" that they used to have for putting in the HT 4100 Caddy coolant?