PontiacBonnevilleClub.com

Hello, I looked at 97 SSEI tonight and It was very nice. The owner went over everything with me. All the repairs he had done the very few issues it has. The engine bay was the cleanest I have ever seen overall the car was excellent. My only concern was the mileage, it is 250,000 miles. I know the 3.8 is a very good engine but I just don't know where 250,000 is on their average lifespan. Personally I think it is a good deal for $1300 (he said he would go down a little more). If you could let me know in your experience how long these engines last I would very much appreciate it, thanks.

Some here have their L67s WAY past 250k miles. The problem with these cars is the trans. Did you drive it?

No, just heard it run.

Go for a nice long drive to let the trans warm up. See if the trans shifts smooth and quick under all conditions. WOT, up hill if possible etc. Make sure there are no slips or odd behavior. Did the seller tell you if the trans has ever had any work done to it or if it's been replaced?

Actually that was the only thing that he didn't mention. I will ask him about the transmission when I take it for a test drive.

It's worth a rebuilt or used trans if you can do the work yourself I think (and you can find a good trans).

I have reason to believe that my L67 is about 330k miles, and when I had it open the original hone marks were still visible. If it was me (and I can fix almost anything at this point), I would still plastigauge the bearings and clean out the oil passages in the crank and in the mains. But if hot oil pressure at idle is above 30 (25 at a minimum) the internals will be solid. Be aware that you are getting close to the mileage that head gaskets start to show their age.

But people that clean their engine compartments generally take more care of their cars than those who don't (in general is not the same as always...). And it's easier to spot leaks.

As for the trans, check the fluid. If it smells burnt, or strong odor, then the clutches are slipping (maybe during shifting, which a shift kit will cure). If it has a sparkly look in sunlight, there is significant hard parts wear. I think it's right at the mileage where the second trans will be getting ready to give out, most I've seen go before 200k due to the PCS, but if it's the original rebuilt it would have more life in it yet.

That was my impression when I saw how clean the car was. It really told me that he took good care of his stuff. Also he said the alternator, fuel lines, intake gasket and bunch of other things had been replaced recently. I will give it a drive and check out the things you mentioned, thanks.

After my test drive I didn't feel anything out of order, so I went made an offer and now she's all mine. I did find out that the guy I bought it from had owned the car for the last 200,000 miles and he never did anything to the transmission. So I think I should probably start looking for a rebuilt trans or just rebuild mine. As I assume its only a matter of time before it goes. I did a little research and am I correct in thinking that I have a 4T65e HD since it is supercharged? Also the PO said he put regular gas in it. I know I need to switch to premium ASAP but should I have the fuel system cleaned or anything like that. I know this is a lot if questions all at once and I appreciate all the help I'm sure to receive, thanks.

Congrats on the buy!

Your car has the 4T65eHD because it's supercharged. If he didn't beat on the car, which seems to be the case since it's still running at this mileage and he admitted to using regular, you may have much life left in that trans yet. Just switch to 91 or greater ASAP and run some fuel injector cleaner through the motor and see how she's running.

For what it's worth, an old forum member(I haven't seen him since I returned) had racked up over 300k on his stock SSEI engine and transmission, and then he started modding it. I forget exact numbers, but I believe he made it into the low 14's. His name was Travis. Of course, that's just one case.

Sweet, would it be worth it to put some seafoam through it?

Yes. Seafoam will clean out her arteries. I'd go that route.