*bump!*

Any new updates on this, perhaps a howto? I will likely be planning on doing this (LIM/UIM gaskets and elbow) with my '99 SLE, as I have some seepage, and could use as best a roadmap as possible.

Thanks in advance.

The How To is actually in Techinfo (link at top left of all pages).

Yeah, but that is all from 2006. I've been lurking for awhile and was real interested in how this alternative fix worked (closing off the passageways).

Perhaps getting a bit more info on how they closed them off, as well (I would be afraid to stuff dimes in the holes).

Although you cannot tell it by the original posting date shown on the title page, the Techinfo article has been updated at least twice since it was originally posted in 2006. The information therein is accurate and up to date. Also, if you read the entire article, you will find links at the bottom describing more than one "how-to."

To read about how to plug the LIM to eliminate coolant flow through the UIM and throttle body, use the search feature under subject LIM and authors bob dillon and mkaake.

1. Drill the lower out to 31/64"


2. Go to the auto parts store and buy some 1/2" oil gallery plugs. Clevite part number is 219-3169.

3. Using a blunt punch, gently tap the plugs into the holes you just drilled.

4. Cover the plugs with JB Weld.



5. You're done. Slobber the sh*tbox together. Use the new GM aluminum gaskets, of course.

If you're a belt and suspenders kinda guy, you can also plug the upper while you have it apart. The UIM passages as cast are .375. Use a 7/16" drill to go into the passages a short distance, then a 1/2" drill far enough to seat the plug. JB weld it. You're done.

(This UIM was also sleeved.)



As to icing, I think it'* extremely unlikely. The intake charge passes by that plastic ring far too quickly to be heated much, and if you look about 1" below the throttle body, you'll see a loop of the exhaust. That loop probably provides all the throttle body heat you're ever gonna need, unless you're motoring around north of the Arctic circle.

Do any of you guys have cars that are running with this mod? Is there any down side to doing it this way other than the icing issue? I'm not too worried about that since I'm in North Carolina. I like the idea of doing it this way because it keeps the coolant out of the upper intake and it saves money.

I installed one of Bob Dillon'* plugged UIM'* on EK98'* car. It was fine for the 6 months he drove it before he sold it. I drilled 'vent' holes in the passages afterwards to get a little convection cooling around there.

WillWren, when you say you drilled holes in the passages to get a little convection cooling around there" Can you be more specific on the location of these new holes?

Regards,
James