Newbie to the Grand Prix world here, i looked as though his was the place to be for info and ideas. I have done a lot of work on Chevy small blocks and numerous diesels, but have little to no experience with a 3800. I'm hoping you guys can help me out a bit. I have a few questions. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
1. I bought a 97 GTP only to have it develop a serious knock on the way home, about 60 miles. It was in immaculate condition w/ about 96,ooo miles on er'. It developed a serious bottom end knock on the way home. Heres my issue- the guy before me said he installed a 3.4 pulley and changed the knock sensor to some thing that apparently wasnt as sensitive (my guess as to why the rods got driven into the crank to the point of failure) - no other mods. I have 45 lbs of oil pressure. What Im wondering is - where on the pulley would I take a measurement to find out the size for sure.
the very outside of the pulley is @3.698
about at the middle of the ribs on the pulley I have 3.4"
The reason I ask is because this is going to be a daily driver in Alaska, and I don't have access to any more than 90 octane w/out mixing what I can get at the pumps.
2. Since I am going to be pulling the engine any way I am curious as to what options I have (keep in mind I dont want to run more than 90 octane) I know my options probably arent too far from stock, but again any information would be greatly appreciated.
3. Where would be the best place to get either a short block, long block, or rotating assembly parts from. My options for machine shops is limited here, so unless I need to build one myself I would like to buy a short block, then pursue getting the heads rebuilt down south if there are any good options for head mods on 90 octane.
4. Any referrals to a good onboard scanner or laptop software/hardware If I will need it would be great too.
Im pretty set on keeping this a 90 octane daily driver, but if need be I may pursue other options.
Thanks for any help
