My brother sent me this picture after he removed the intake manifold from his 03 Envoy 4.2. It's probably got over 150,000 miles on it. A while ago he mentioned an oil leak around his spark plugs and I just happened to read a post from Swartlkk about the gaskets failing. So I guess this is his weekend project...

So, other than needing to change his oil more often... What's up with the rust? It's been quite a while since he's driven it, but I wouldn't think rust on the rockers? would be good. I have never owned and know absolutely nothing about the 4.2. Should he be worried about a coolant leak somewhere as well, or is that rust typical of abused and neglected 4.2 engines?

Thanks everyone!!

 

That looks like the motor has had some water in it at some point. It shouldn't have gotten that bad from just sitting.

Have you tried to clean up the cam lobes? They look crusty which isn't good. If they are pitted, it is only a matter of time before something fails in the valve train.

 

He just got the intake off this evening. I will pass that info along.
Thanks!