[bpierson]

We owned a '94 SLS that ended up with a cracked block. Traded that in for a 2000 DTS (we are 2nd owner) which has been at the dealers for going on 3 weeks now. Only message we got was coolant was low. We took it in and had them look at it. They said it might be head gasket blown, later they said 3 loose rear engine bolts and not head gasket, later they said no its a crack on the engine block.
So I asked some questions...

Did you magnaflux engine? no was visible

Was there coolant in the oil? no visible coolant in oil

Is the water jacket solid? no thats where it is leaking from

By what cylinders is the crack? if your sitting in the driver seat it is the back left cylinder.

Now they told me that all these where unusual for a Cadillac that has only 57k miles on it (2000 DTS). We also baby our Caddy's.

From what I have been reading here... cracked heads, gasket leaks, etc... seems to be the norm for Cadillac? Cadillac it's self refuses to do anything to help with the cost of repairs. The dealer quoted over 6k to put in a "new" used engine. So we went with the cheaper option of welding the crack. How long will weld last? Any input or assistance will be appreciated.