New Buick Lesabre Owner

[Treeman456]

Hey Y'all! I recently became a new Buick Lesabre owner! It's a 2001 with 134k on it. It drives like a dream.

I've changed the rear shocks, power steering fluid, brakes, windshield wipers, air filter, and cabin air filter. I plan on changing the spark plugs, front shocks, fuel filter, & transmission fluid soon. I'm replacing the Lower Intake Manifold Gasket with a more qualified friend on Monday.

I just wanted to ask if y'all could think of anything else that might be worth inspecting or changing with this age? Also, hi! This is my first post.

 

[2004CSOTP]

While you're changing the spark plugs, change the spark plug wires as well.

 

[Mad_Coachman]

Getting the spark plug wires off of the rear spark plugs was very challenging on my 2002 in part due to the change in heater core placement which puts the heater hoses in the way as opposed to the previous generation.

I replaced my Belt tensioner assembly and coolant elbows at the same time. Removing the alternator and belt tensioner assembly gives you some more working room. Be sure to use the metal elbows.

https://www.amazon.com/Dorman-47065HP-Elbow-Type-Heater/dp/B00A1A6PT4/ref=sr_1_1?crid=12MRFB9QAQFNN&dchild=1&keywords=coolant+bypass+hose&pd_rd_r=57a8b614-60ad-4caf-b72b-731f29be9a69&pd_rd_w=VqAxE&pd_rd_wg=Tjwey&pf_rd_p=9360b471-40a4-4849-a379-57e91fca0d04&pf_rd_r=YHTTG1SYH4H9YK9PK745&qid=1630851264&s=automotive&sprefix=coolant+bypass%2Caps%2C159&sr=1-1&vehicle=2002-45-388-13--1-6-5-1217-336-1-1-2424--&vehicleName=2002+Buick+LeSabre

 

[sightcrr]

Make sure you look at or just change the coolant elbows that go in the idler pulley bracket. My 05 drove lots better after changing the front motor mount (actually on transmission ) near the radiator. The rest of mine were ok.

 

[Homer Jay]

+All good advice above.
Treeman you did not mention replacing the upper intake manifold and gasket, Not sure if you forgot to list, but if it's original both should be replaced. Here's a helpful link for common problems which also apply to the LeSabre;

2000+ Common Problems & Solutions (updated 5.11.11) : 2000-2005 (other than GXP)

I've spent many hours working on this update, but I know its not perfect. Feel free to post any questions, comments, additions, etc to further ...

www.pontiacbonnevilleclub.com

 

[Treeman456]

Thanks all! I'll definitely keep everything in mind when replacing the spark plugs. When changing the lower intake gasket tomorrow I am planning on changing the valve covers, coolant elbows, and upper intake plenum as well. I just want to get it all done 🙂

Cheers!

 

[2004CSOTP]

Treeman, I'm interested in how it goes.

 

[Treeman456]

Treeman, I'm interested in how it goes.

Wow! We replaced the upper intake manifold, coolant elbows, valve cover gaskets and lower intake gasket. It was significantly harder than I expected. When tightening the valve cover gaskets I didn't realize the torque wrench had clicked. I over tightened it and broke the bit. We had to go to a junk yard to get a new bolt, and to a store to get an extractor bit.

All in all it took about 10-12 hours. That includes a long snack break, going to an auto parts store for some cleaning supplies, and dealing with the broken drill bit. Not included is changing the coolant/ oil.

The car runs great now. No more smoke! We managed to break a few parts while we were in there. Next time I think I might just pay a mechanic to do it. But it was totally worth it!

Cheers!
--Treeman