scottbalmforth1120
New member
- Joined
- Mar 25, 2022
- Messages
- 14
- Reaction score
- 4
- Points
- 3
- Buick Ownership
- 2007 Buick LaCrosse CX

I'm doing a head gasket replacement on my '07 Lacrosse with the 3800 in it. I've gotten pretty far: I've removed the bullet dog bone mounts and pulled the engine forward with a ratchet strap for a little more room. I'm also having trouble getting the back three sparkplug shields and rubber boots off the old spark plugs as well since the people who had the car before me never changed them. Any tips or suggestions would be great for that as well.
But my main issue is getting these downpipe studs out. There's literally minimal amount of space to get tools and hands in there. Going through the bottom proved to be very difficult as I don't have a lift, just a jack and stands. I've sprayed them down with PB Blaster which helped but I'm still having a heap of trouble even getting them loose.
I'm also curious to know if the rocker arm bolts are reusable or are they tourqe-to-yield bolts like the cylinder head bolts? I ordered a head stud kit from ZZP for the rebuild. I have Fel-Pro gaskets for the heads. I really want to replace the whole exhaust, manifolds and all from ZZP. If I need to cut it out I will. Heater core hoses are being replaced so I cut them for room and so they'll be easier to remove.
Any rebuild tips are much needed and appreciated as I am doing this solo and have no one to help me personally.
Thanks!

Last edited: