DMC90

I pulled this post off a Corvette forum I often visit and seem that those of us that use Dexcool Antifreeze may have a problem. I have had it in my 90 Reatta for a couple of years now and it still is clear as can be HOWEVER read the following: A guy on another board was having a problem with no heat. One of the participants there is a top knotch ASE mechanic. Here's his comments on DexCool. Just FYI. GM has ha major issues with Dexcool. It has a propensity to leak slowly past seals and gaskets (basically disappears) and the air gap between the fluid level in the radiator and cap becomes superheated, causing sludge to form. You will see this sludge when you pull the rad cap off, and it ends up in places like the heater core. Dexcool tends to gain a positive charge faster than its green counterpart, which deteriorates thin metal parts like freeze plugs and water pump backing plate on the 4.3L. But wait, there's more! In a multi-million dollar study, GM quietly discovered that Dexcool was incompatible with the Nylon 6/6 that they were using in many parts of the engine and cooling system - gaskets, radiators, heater cores, etc. Rather than risk the tax credits they get from the Gov't for long-life coolant, they are quietly changing the plastics rather than the Dexcool. This is how I understand it. Every chance we get at the shop, we recommend flushing Dexcool and going back to the tradional green antifreeze. The downside is that you are back on the 2-year flush interval, which is certainly better than letting the Dexcool run its course. On newer GM vehicles that are still under warranty, it is in your best interest to flush and refill once a year with Dexcool. This will lessen the negative effects of Dexcool and not give GM an "out" providing a warranty situation arises with the engine or cooling system, by having green antifreeze. This is what I'm doing on my 03 Denali, and when the warranty runs out, the Dexcool goes.

Having the same problem with my 1998 LeSabre with a 3800 engine. If you aren't sure where the leak is coming from and want to be sure, spray baby powder in the area and it will show the path. My car leaks only overnight when it is cold and as you say only a small amount. If you change to pump take the opportunity to change the serpentine belt.

If you have your car judged beware because you will lose points. I replaced my wires with a GM replacement set and lost points since they are not Authentic. For my 1990 3.8L the set P/N was 12074043, they were a darker gray and had no #s on them. I tried to buy plug wires from GM with the #s on them and they told me that they were no longer in production, they only had a couple available.

Had a great time at Flint and wish it could have lasted longer. We met many new as well as old friends from previous BCA Nationals. <img src="http://www.aaca.org/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> Domenick & Lorie Clemente

TX for the info, last year at Kokomo the Holiday Inn Express was terrific in that they gave us a section to wash our cars, supplied hoses, buckets and towels. I can almost bet as you expect that Bob did arrange for the same at the Wingate. See you there! Domenick

My wife and I will be arriving at the Windgate Mon. early afternoon. We will be driving a 1990 Red Coupe from Long Island, NY. First thing on the adgenda will most likely be "where do I wash my car". Domenick & Lorie Clemente

I just purchased a full set of molded Reatta carpet for a 1990 Reatta in the Tan color. The carpet fits and matches perfect and they have all the templates even for the doors, console and rear compartment hatches. You can get information by sending an E-mail to alan@carmotorsports.com or telephoning him 1-678-431-1408.

Wouldn't it be nice if all the remaining Reatta's had owners that were members of the BCA Reatta Division! BCA #37157 Reatta Div. #458

To all who may not know as of yet, we the members of the Reatta Division of the BCA have one of the best Technical Advisors. Congratulations to Barney Eaton who has just been appointed to the position of Director of the Technical Advisor Program for the Buick Club of America (BCA). For all of us that know Barney and of his dedication as a Tech Advisor it comes as no suprise that he should be recognized for his efforts.

I am surprised that we don't have a Reatta owner or Division member that can accomodate this Request. I have tried for two years along with Barney Eaton and Jim Finn to have a company manufacture OEM quality and color molded Carpet kits for our Reatta's. I have spoken with Alan and do believe that he will produce a near perfect carpet kit of which I will purchase a set. Lets not slam a guy if he makes a profit isn't that why people go into business? Too bad I don't live in the Atlanta Area!! Domenick Clemente BCA #37157 Reatta Division #458

I will be driving my 90' Reatta Coupe to Flint where I am registered in Grand Blsnc at the Wingate Inn with other fellow members of the Reatta Division of the BCA. Unfortunately I can't do much to get my car ready since it is covered up on blocks stored under a cover. Can't Wait Till July! Domenick Clemente BCA # 37157 Reatta Division # 458

Contact Jim Finn at jfinn@computerpro.com/1-218-628-2690. Im sure he can help you with the parts (used).

You can still buy a brand new owners manual ($25.00). Cal Dallas Slaubaugh at Van Devere Oldsmobile 1-800-362-9494 or <A HREF="http://www.vandevere.com." TARGET=_blank>www.vandevere.com.</A>

My glass shop checked with LOF a week ago and they were going for $1000. They had a couple in Baltimore, Maryland.

Try calling Mike Book at the BCA office at 614-4782-3939 he may be able to help. Besides working at the office he is also a Reatta owner!