what do I do now...

[grand86prix_05]

I was changing the PCV and grommet today on my 3.8l, when the unthinkable happened...the stupid grommet top crumbled off and the rest of it fell into the intake. Now what do I do? I do not want to remove the intake, but Im fearing I may have to. I am beyond irritated and frustrated, I'm exploding with rage because this is such a dumb thing. The intake looks like a chore to remove and I just finished my transmission install. I was getting ready to get it reregistered and insured tomorrow, then this. Would it be possible that I do not need to remove the intake, I mean is there a chance it would be safe? I'm betting no. I tried to fish it out and I could have sworn I heard it fall down in more. What do I do? I seriously need help guys, I REALLY dont want to remove the intake 😢

 

[billyjack]

I worked for a Buick dealer in the 70's & 80's, and this happened more often than the techs cared to admit. I never knew of an engine problem resulting from a dropped grommet. Usually it will go to the lifter valley or down to the oil pan and stay there forever. The screen on the oil pump pickup will keep it from going back into the system. Technically it could be a problem, but no tech at our dealer was ever worried enough to pull an intake. JMO
Bill

 

[grand86prix_05]

well thats a bit relieving to hear, and I've calmed down now, but still...I'd hate to think this little brittle piece of rubber could cause an issue after I jut replaced the transmission. I just wonder that since it is crumbling apart, could it do so and end up in the filter? More input would be appreciated.

 

[dan2286]

well thats a bit relieving to hear, and I've calmed down now, but still...I'd hate to think this little brittle piece of rubber could cause an issue after I jut replaced the transmission. I just wonder that since it is crumbling apart, could it do so and end up in the filter? More input would be appreciated.

I really dont think it will be a problem. It is to small to clog up the pick up tube and I doubt it will end up in the filter. It may cause a problem later on, but its not likely. If you are that worried about, pull the intake manifold and get it out so you have some peace of mind.

 

[grand86prix_05]

glad to hear that, and if the engine meant more to me I probably would. I want to do a swap at some point, for now the 3.8 will do. I do want it to last a long time, but since you guys say its unlikely the grommet will cause any kind of damage I am ok with it. Thanks for the reassurance 😀

 

[dan2286]

glad to hear that, and if the engine meant more to me I probably would. I want to do a swap at some point, for now the 3.8 will do. I do want it to last a long time, but since you guys say its unlikely the grommet will cause any kind of damage I am ok with it. Thanks for the reassurance 😀

Just thought I would let you know, do not take our info and think nothing will happen. If you start hearing any noises from the engine or your oil light comes on, do not ignore it, it might be the grommet. Will something happen? Most likely not, but just make sure you do not act like it never happened.

 

[crappycutlass]

dont worry about it... a few weeks back i dropped a full size acorn in through my carb... it was holding the choke open and then... in it goes...

i was thinking i was screwed... but it's still in there... and no issues... and this was right in the intake...

 

[el_sonoma]

LOL......acorn?......LOL

 

[SLICK79WGN]

You dont mean like a metel acorn style nut do you????

 

[slone56]

LOL, a metal acorn would not be good. But to correct the "acorn smuggler", it isn't still there. That thing has been toasted, and some squirrel has already enjoyed the new roasted flavor after it shot out of your exhaust in tiny pieces