The History of Beehive Springs

[five7kid]

I understand they first showed up in factory LS1's, but not clear on when, or if that's really true.

My daughter bought a 2000 Malibu 3.1l V6 this week, and when changing the oil I looked in the oil fill, and I could swear it's got beehives in there.

I'm sure I'm behind the times, but curious how bad it really is.

[MaDmaXXX]

you are correct. Most GM vehicle have beehive springs. Started in 98 with the LS1, Has trickled down to most of their platforms. Watch that intake gasket carefully on the malibu.they are very prone to leaking. if it leaks internally you will be buying a new motor. most will have a puddle of dexcool under the power steering pump and exhaust crossover. if u see that get it changed soor or it will make chocolate milk in the oil. Those bearing DO NOT like coolant. exspecially a highly acidic coolant like dexcool.

[five7kid]

Good to know I wasn't seeing things.

We'll keep an eye on that intake manifold. The Malibu is replacing a '92 Lumina with the 3.1 V6, I changed the intake gasket on it last summer. End seal silicone hardened like a rock and leaked oil constantly.

[five7kid]

My wife & I just picked up her mother's '95 Buick Century 3.1. Same thing - changing the oil, look into the oil fill, beehives.

That predates LS1's, if memory serves.