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Though the GM 3800 (3.8L) V6 engine used in the LeSabre underwent several major design changes in the 1996 model year, the basic (and largely successful) intake manifold architecture remained basically unchanged.
Function
Like all intake manifolds used on multi-port fuel-injected engines, the LeSabre's is responsible mainly for ferrying fresh air from the engine's throttle body (main air valve) to the cylinder head. The manifold also carries hot exhaust gases from one side of the engine to the other.
Location
The 3800's intake is bolted to the cylinder heads and can be found nestled in the "V" formed by the engine block.
Material
The LeSabre's 3800 was one of the first engines to use an all-polycarbonate plastic intake manifold.
Design
The 3800 uses an over-under design, wherein its intake runners wrap around the top of the intake plenum cavity.
Design Flaws
Due to the hot exhaust gases it carries, the plastic used in these manifolds is known to soften and fail over time
Source:
Underhoodservice.com: 3800 Article
Carforums.com: Intake Repair Kit
Resource:
Video: Home-built Turbo Set-up on 3800
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