Recent Feedback
Evenin' Mechs. I have a '93 Northstar engine with the "plastic" fuel rail cracked and leaking at one of the fuel lines inserted between two of the injectors. I've learned new fuel rails are no longer available. What's the best way to fix such a leaking fuel line issue.? Regards, Ralph
Optional Information: Make: Cadillac Model: Allante Year: 1993 Already Tried: Replaced the cracked and leaking "plastic" fuel line with typical fuel injection specification hose of a push-to-fit inner diameter plus hose clamps.
You should try & update the Intake Manifold to a 1994. You could get all the items you need from a local junkyard & it probably wouldn't cost as much as you think! As far as the repair, it sounds like the one you made is the only feasible one, however, you should inspect it every 6 months as the hose is exposed to crankcase vapors on those 93's, & could cause premature failure on the rubber.
OK, to do that, can you please advise all the models and years have a suitable intake system that will mate to the '93 Allante Northstar?
Also, what are all the models and years that used the 1st design Northstars like the Allante Northstar?
Same as the Eldo & Seville. You may need to get an engine harness as well because some of the things like the MAP/BARO Sensor will be located externally. You may be able to get away with just getting new pre-wired connectors that will add length to the existing harness to reach the new MAP location. Obviously, your best bet is to find a NOS Fuel Rail assy. Have you had any dealers do a search for any?
OK, was your answer of "Eldo & Seville" for a later style intake system?
I ask because my additional question was:
"Also, what are all the models and years that used the 1st design Northstars like the Allante Northstar?"
The only dealer I asked to do a search was my parts guy @ Cadillac of Orange Park, Florida.
Yes. The heads & blocks didn't change until '98, even then they were subtle changes. Do you have the 8th digit of the VIN?
If the parts professional did his job correctly, he could have searched the entire country for any dealer who had the piece in stock. I know there are several dealers in Florida. Probably wouldn't hurt to try a couple more nearby. You wouldn't happen to have the part number for it, would you????
8th of the VIN = 9.
Part not individually serviced; but is part of Kits 1 & 7 ~ Part #s 17112850 & 17112856.
I've also been advised to try to find a serviceable recycled fuel rail; that's why I've asked you twice:
"Also, what are all the models and years that used the 1st design Northstars like the Allante Northstar?" Can you please answer this this time, if you know.
OK. Sorry I was not clear. VIN# XXXXX would be found in all Cadillacs from 92-97, however, the intake on the 92-93 is exclusive, and there was a design change on the intake in 94.
Allante's, Seville's, and Eldorados equipped with Northstars' shared the engine. Introduced in mid 1992 on the 1993 Cadillac Allanté and later on that year's Seville and Eldorado.
Lastly I'd try to find a good quality recycled part from a junkyard as you've been previously advised.
It's just that we had so many problems with that old intake system, particularly MAP/BARO sensors & wiring harnesses that I was thinking if you could update to a later model Intake, it may save you trouble in the future. However, it may devalue the car based on originality.
Thank you for your time and expertise. You've been most helpful. If I could impose one further inquiry, if you please:
Do you have any experience that would lend itself to advising me of what type of fuel compatible line may be suitable for long term service in replacing those "plastic" lines of the '93 system - - or - - if not, can you direct me to the type of vendor that I should visit?
I've seen sections of service line sold at NAPA Auto Parts and marketed by Dorman Products that may work, however if I recall correctly, that line has a lot of contours that would need to be manipulated into it just right. If you think you have the time & patience to do it, along with a Heat Gun, you may want to give it a shot.
Experience: 8 time Cadillac Gold Level Excellence Award Winner
Thanks so much. Is service line a specific product similar to the original material? I ask because you mentioned use of a "Heat Gun".
Yes it is.
I'm gonna check that out to see if I can accomplish what you suggest. Thanks so much for your time and expertise. Have a good-nite.
Good Luck!!!