I just got a call from them about the oil sample I sent in from my Malibu. I knew I was leaking coolant out the intake manifold gaskets, but wasn't sure if it was making it into the oil. So I wanted to know if the motor was still worth fixing or if I should start shopping for a new car. The guy who called (wish I could remember his name) told me there is a problem, but outside of the coolant the motor was fine. He told me a simple intake manifold gasket would make it good as new, he has a newer Malibu with the same motor so he knows about the issues wtih this motor.

www.blackstone-labs.com

If your Malibu has on of the Vortec V-8s, the problem may be with the OEM placement (angle) of the head bolts. The heads with the bolts perpendicular to the block are prone to leakage as per the machine shop that I use.

Nope, the Malibu doesn't come with a V8. Mine is a 2000 with a 3.1 and I know the newer ones come with a bigger V6. Are you thinking Impala maybe? It is a well known fact that these motors (back to the mid '90s) have issues with the intake gaskets.

I was just plain shocked that Blackstone actually called. It helped me make the decision to stop driving the car and order parts today instead of tomorrow. I didn't get the .pdf results yet, guess it takes them time to e-mail them out.

Chris,

They call as soon as the problem is discovered. Expect the email within 48 hours. This is not an isolated happenstance -- these are good people.