Intake Manifold Install - Coolant in Oil

[dougie]

I'm getting ready to re-install my intake manifold and searched the board for tips. I found one thread where it was suggested that you remove the oil pan and thoroughly clean it out, as a small amount of left over coolant gets into the oil when you remove the intake. The concern was bearing failure.

I did have a small amount of coolant (I'm in Chicago and run antifreeze) in the lifter valley, so some probably ran down to the pan. I was just thinking an oil change would take care of it.

I'd love to hear some comments and other's experience. Thanks.

 

[VadersV6]

Did you drain the coolant out of the system before pulling the intake? If not, I would definetely drain the oil without starting it up at all and change it with some crappy oil, let it run for a few minutes, and drain it again and change in some good oil. But you dont have to pull the pan. Just make sure that when you change in some cheap oil, just let it idle. Dont drive it or rev it up. Then change in the good stuff. If you did drain the coolant beforehand, as you should have, then just wipe the coolant out of the lifter valley with a rag, and change the oil right away with some good oil.

 

[dougie]

Thanks,

Yes I did drain the coolant before I pulled it. Had a little puddling in the lifter valley and soaked it up. Sounds like good advice. I'll put some Brand X in for start up and then switch to the good stuff.

 

[Louie L.]

Although you are shooting for NO coolant in the oil at all. The amount you mentioned should pose no harm to the engine. Bearing damage happens ususally in a head gasked failure when a large amount of coolant has been introduced into the oil.