Quote Originally Posted by Paul_A View Post
same engine just bored and stroked, I'm wondering if that extra stress is just a "little too much"........
Seriously doubt that. The best theory I heard was the oil ring (aka ring land) on the stroked version set too close to smallish drain-back holes. This could cause gunk to build up over time, interfering with proper oil flow. I also think it was supposed to have been corrected in either 2001 or 2002. (not sure) If you look around here, you'll find a thread with a better explanation.

Either way, cleaning it like you mention could be one of the keys for longevity. Regular (frequent) oil changes might be a huge plus for this issue too.

Lots of people have blamed PVC valves here but I don't know that the 3.2's would have had a different one.