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Pakistan, Islamabad
1 Level
717 Review
44 Karma

Review on Dorman 615-205 Engine Intake Manifold Gasket Set – Compatible Models, Top-Quality Solution by Brendan Baker

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Ignore all the criticism these pads are getting. If you can follow the instructions, they will do their job and then some for you.

I've done a HUGE amount of research on the horrible GM 3.1/3.4L LIM seal issue and every forum, video and blog I've looked at has mentioned two brands. Felpro has been the most recommended so far. Many said that Dorman should be avoided and a more expensive competitor chosen. As a poor retail footman in his 20s, however, Felpro's asking price was too high. Especially when you factor in the cost of the intake manifold bolts (Felpro sells them separately, adding another $20 to their already higher price) and all the extra gaskets Dorman throws in their kit. Ultimately, it's either $40 for everything and then a few in a box from Dorman, or more than $80 for two separate packs from Felpro, not including some secondary seals. So I replaced the lower intake manifold gasket 1800 km ago. While I certainly can't comment on the durability of Dorman seals, I have no complaints at this point. I've double-checked my work just to be sure, but it seems that Dorman's cheaper pads, combined with a healthy dose of RTV on each seam, are a surefire way to solve your LIM pad woes, and a few bucks in it you're in. It's also a good idea to have a fresh EGR gasket, throttle body gasket and o-rings for some coolant lines (and fresh LIM bolts of course). If I find myself in another leaky seal scenario I will definitely purchase this pack again. With over 120,000 miles I honestly don't see the point of spending double that amount on something that shouldn't last more than a few years before switching to another car.

Pros
  • Handsfree
Cons
  • Very Expensive