Well I finally found a bonny after months of searching, my 92 was totalled in October. I grabbed a 96 se off a used car lot for $1000. The body was cool but the motor was locked. Pulled it home and tinkered for about a half an hour, turned the motor back a bit and cranked her up. She blew thick white smoke out the tailpipe for about 20 mins. Cleaned the plugs, changed the oil, and put some block sealer in the radiator. I have no idea what to look for or do first. She runs fine and the engine sounds great. Didn't have time then but now I'm ready to attack the real issues inside. This will be my new hobby and this is my first project car. I've got access to some tools and a friend who has some know how so any suggestions on where to start?

So the car is running now?

First thing I would do is check the compression of each cylinder. If one is low compared to the others, squirt a bit of oil in the cylinder and test again. If its good the rings are going if there was no change its the valves.

It may have been locked with water. This is a common problem with 3800 Series II engines.

http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/...pic.php?t=5349
http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/...pic.php?t=8522

Yeah the car runs fine, at least it sounds fine. I haven't had any problems with it I just want to make sure I fix the problem. I guess I will just give it a complete tune up and see what happens. I flushed the radiator and replaced dexcool and put in a 180 t-stat. I cleaned the engine off and have not seen any leaks or loss of fluid.

I can almost 100% guarantee you, your upper intake needs replacing. It probably failed, and your coolant hydrolocked the engine.

Thanks guys! One last question, so replace the upper intake, but then what else should I do since I will already be taking things apart. And which part or kit should i buy? I see many options but have no idea which and where to find?

God I hope you have better luck then I did....and I hope that coolant wasn't in the motor
to long

Keep a close eye on your oil pressure toooo...
Were the coolant spent too much time in the pistons......it took out the bottom
of the motor on my bonnie

Good luck !

And keep these guys posted with your questions.....they are very helpful & knowledgeable!
Something that may look small...if you catch it now maybe a big lifesaver!

You should also replace the lower intake gaskets. They deteriorate about as quickly as the upper intakes. Many people have switched from the GM upper intake to a Dorman. Too early to tell yet, though of the reliability, as the mileage hasn't gotten up there.

It'* Alive!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! keep an eye on her!

Wow...