What do you know about the HT4100 aluminum block engine?

Question

I have a good deal on an 85 ElDorado (clean) with 103K miles. I am looking for a daily driver and a car that will travel well on a few longer trips (1000 miles roundtrip). What can you tell me about the engine? the car? dependability? comfort? Thanks

Answer 1

This engine is prone to have coolant leaks and premature bearing failure. Now with that said, if the engine has been maintained and there is no knocking sounds while it is running, you can probably rule out bearing failure. The coolant leaks are still an issue that you would want to have a qualified shop look into. This particular engine uses a coolant supplement and should have the supplement replaced anytime there is coolant work performed. The engine is also prone to have oil leaks at the front timing cover near the oil pan.

All in all if the coolant leaks are not there and the engine sounds ok , you are basically just taking a chance on a 100 thousand mile vehicle, which, if that is the true miles, isn't bad at all for the model year.. Good luck.

Answer 2

notaverygoodengine.mainbearingboltspullout