[runn141]

i have 97 gran prix with a 3800 v6 series 2, every now and then it wont idle. i noticed it has blown oil out of the valve covers onto the intake and when it is acting up i can take the oil filler cap off and it will clear up and idle smooth. so i figure it is a clogged pcv valve, but there is none on the valve covers and i cant see where one is anywhere else. could it be something else? and where would i look for it?

[carsavvycook]

The PCV valve connection is located on the rear of the upper plenum. Follow the hose, or plastic tubing, to the rear valve cover.

[runn141]

Originally Posted by carsavvycook

The PCV valve connection is located on the rear of the upper plenum. Follow the hose, or plastic tubing, to the rear valve cover.

i have already found it, it is located opposite of the throttle body with a sensor on it(no hose). unless there are 2 of them but there are no hoses or plastic tubing anywhere off of the rear valve cover. thanks for the reply anyhow.

[TorkMonster400]

I believe that the 3800 and the 3100? both had a lot of problems with the lower intake gasket on the manifold, causing oil and coolant mix. But I don't think this would be your problem.

[carsavvycook]

Originally Posted by TorkMonster400

I believe that the 3800 and the 3100? both had a lot of problems with the lower intake gasket on the manifold, causing oil and coolant mix. But I don't think this would be your problem.

You are correct. I have seen many with the 'plastic o'ringed' intake manifold gaskets leak. GM is not the only manufacturer to have this problem either.

Mostly they leak to the outside, before leaking into the intake valley though. You should smell that 'sweet' odor of coolant, before it mixes with the oil. Sometimes I wonder if the car owner knows where the hood release handle is. I have a very close friend that was the reason for this remark. It is explained better 2 posts down.

[runn141]

Originally Posted by carsavvycook

Sometimes I wonder if the car owner knows where the hood release handle is.

why is that?

[carsavvycook]

Originally Posted by runn141

why is that?

That statement is not intended for any members here.

I am in the auto repair business, and have been so, for too many years than I like to remember. Last week, I got a phone call, from the wife of a former mechanic, for a price quote, on a blown head gasket, on his truck.

Today he called me for the cylinder head torque spec's.

He obviously had not opened the hood to even check the oil, it was down 3 quarts(it only holds 4)the last time I saw it, about 4 months ago. They are very close friends of mine.

Do I need to explain it more?

I do apologize if you took it personal, it was not my intention to offend anyone here. Just a reminder to make sure you check, or impress on a loved one, or friend, to open the hood, and check fluids, weekly at least.