Expert: autohelp - 5/16/2010

Question
hi i got a 1996 Cadillac deville with the 4.6l northstar engine and it has a cracked engine block. I got another engine but i want to rebuild it and i want to know is it possible to do it my self cause i been told to take it to the dealer ship or a professional. I want to try to do it my self but i cant seem to find any book that tells you how to do it.

Answer
This engine is famous for the steel head bolt threads tearing out the aluminum threads in the block.

There are NUMEROUS factory technical service bulletins pertaining to the procedure on how to fix the problem as well as numerous other engine repair and update recommendations that MUST be done if you want the engine to last.

Rebuilding it yourself depends upon your engine rebuilding skills as this engine is way different than the engines that you are most likely used to.

If you have never rebuilt one of these engines your in for a shock.