0
go to cadillacforums.com and join the catera/cimarron group (retired caddy names). find your answer there. the job really can be done in your driveway or garage, you'll just need a few tools that you might not have (30mm socket, etc.) that you can get nearly anywhere. the manuals are available on eBay and other sources, plus the guys in the catera forum have done this many, many times. it takes about 2-4 hours depending on your basic familiarity with engines. you should also update your heat exchanger (aka oil cooler under your intake, on top of your motor) with a new design one. the hcv (heater control valve) could be done as well. if you need to do a timing chain replacement, you'll need a special tool (which you can buy for $4-500 or rent for about $130) for that. it sounds like a lot, but updating these with NON Cadillac parts, will save you huge $$$ down the line. while your at it, there are a coupla plastic covers you can get in aluminum from European Opel engine (same car) sources that won't warp like the plastic caddy ones. all of this is relatively cheap (hundreds, not thousands), so dig in and learn about your catera... we did!
PS - the other route is to update your engine with a 2000 model or newer rebuilt or even (possibly) brand-new drop in engine from eBay or a motor seller. just Google it, they're out there for under $2k, shipped.
What else can I help you with?
What causes a 1997 Cadillac Catera overheat?
Head Gasket to replace
How much does it cost to replace a head gasket for a 2000 Cadillac escalade?
How does it cost to replace a head gasket for a 2000 Cadillac escalade
What size sockets do you need to replace a head gasket on a 1998 Cadillac Catera?
To replace a head gasket on a 1998 Cadillac Catera, you'll typically need a set of metric sockets, including 10mm, 13mm, and 15mm sizes for various bolts and components. Additionally, a 24mm socket may be required for the crankshaft pulley. It's advisable to have a torque wrench on hand for properly tightening the head bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
Why would oil be found in the spark plugs sockets of a 1997 Cadillac Catera?
head gasket!
How much should it cost to replace one head gasket on 97 Cadillac catera?
If it is a 4 cylinder, it will run a few hundred dollars. If it is a V6 or v8, BOTH head gaskets should be changed at the same time.
Oil mixed with coolant in 1999 Cadillac Catera?
If there is coolant in your oil on the dip stick, it's a blown head gasket. It will look like chocolate milk.
Do head gasket Thermagasket work on Cadillac northstar motors?
It may work as an emergency temporary repair but the only permanent repair is to replace the head gasket.
Why the catera spill oil through the antifreeze canister?
Blown head gasket. More common on a catera is a cracked oil cooler, head gasket problems are very rare on them.
Do you have to drop the engine on a Cadillac STS 1996 to replace the head gasket?
If that is the Northstar engine, yes.
How much does a new head gasket for a 1999 Cadillac Seville SLS cost?
About $40 for the gasket... And about book value of your car to replace them.
How much to replace a head gasket on a 2003 cadillac cts?
make sure its the head gasket leaking and not the oil cooler. Are you getting oil in your coolaint? Oil coolers are a big problem in this car
How do you replace head gasket YJ?
take off the head, replace gasket. reinstall head
