Well, after reading enough posts on LIM/UIM, I reluctantly decided to pop off the engine cover and check mine.





I'm assuming this is the start of a failure with the dried orange goo around the LIM? Its never wet, and I've found no oil in the coolant/coolant in the oil. Could it just be some crud (wishful thinking)?

The leak that kills is internal. Not external. However:

You have an L36 with an OEM UIM and are using DEXcool. It is failing. There is no question. You can deal with it ahead of time, or possibly have to replace the engine. L36 engine replacements on this Forum outnumber ALL OTHERS combined by at least 3:1.

We just lost another L36 bottom end yesterday.

I'm sure mine is on it'* way as well. Probably a good time to go ahead and pick up the gasket kit and new UIM, correct?

Afterwards, flush with the green stuff?

LIM gaskets also. Poor design kills the UIM. Dex kills the LIM gaskets.

You can use green or the Prestone Dex compatible has been found to be a quality replacement as well.

Cool thanks. I'll probably do it once classes let out so then I have some free time.

BTW..if you plan to flush, you can do it before or after the new gaskets. Personally..right before is a good time. That way it'* all rinsed out and never gets to the new gaskets.

Hmm... good idea. Could I actually flush the orange stuff out now with the green stuff, or will this just cause problems?

What about injector o-rings? New ones needed?

I would replace the o rings. I would actually flush with water.. then pull it in and take it apart. Then refill with green or the prestone long life.

When mixed, the orange and green will create a sludge that you DON'T want.

A full flush with water is highly recommended first.