what to look for?

[3100]

I'm buying a 96 grand prix with the 3100 sfi motor. It runs well and doesn't leak or burn anything, I'd like to keep it that way.


Aside from the head/intake gaskets what should I be prepared to replace? I've never owned anything GM before.

[Azrael]

Get an oil + filter change and have the coolant system flushed as relatively cheap insurance/peace of mind. 96 and newer GM vehicles have dexcool coolant (long-life) which goes very wrong when neglected. And the coolant system is often very ignored by the average owner.

Aside from the lower intake manifold gasket issue you seem to know about, these engines are pretty reliable and easy to work on.

[3100]

thanks. what's the oil capacity on these motors? 5 quarts/4.7 liters?


i usually buy felpro permadry gaskets. is there anything else that's recommended for the intake and head gaskets when i inevitably do them?

[Azrael]

That sounds about right on oil capacity. I've needed less than 5L at each oil change.

On a car that isn't abused, pretty much any available headgasket is fine. Just be sure to use new headbolts. For Intake manifold gaskets I recommend the MS98004T set. The lower manifold gasket in that set is metal framed to prevent the issues the plastic framed ones had.

[3100]

Thank you!


Is 5w30 the recommended?



What's the cooling system capacity? I plan to flush and refill. Not sure if a 96 will have dex in it or not.

[Azrael]

Yea I think 5W30 is recommended for most of GM's lineup.

My Grand Am's coolant capacity is about 12.4L. It could be a little more in your Grand Prix. It might say in the service section of your owners manual if your car came with it.