So I just discovered that my new purchase, 1999 TB (4.3 L V-6) , has a leaking intake gasket. One shop has quoted $450 to replace. How does that sound to you all? I realize labor rates vary but just curious.
I can do the work, just have no place warm to do it... maybe I'll wait until weather warms and do it myself. How big a chore is this and any tips?

 

did water pump, plugs and wires while I was there..
FEL-PRO MS 95817 Intake Manifold Gasket Ebay 31.16
Belt\ Dayco 5060950 Auto Zone 34.99
Water Pump\CWP-9020 Auto Zone 48.99
plugs and wires 37.43

dunno if part numbers are the same but this was on my spreadsheet

 

Not a bad job, just time consuming, usually about 4 hours. You will need an inch pound torque wrench, and there are some do's and don'ts that we can help you with. 1996 & newer, you need to use Felpro MS98002T gasket set. The MS95817 is the OEM style, (not recommended) and they will leak again, guaranteed. Fine if you want to save money and broom the car, but not good for long term.

 

Wait until the weather warms up?

Seriously, u are considering waiting? Have u ever heard the story about anti freeze and bearings???? if u are smart u will take care of this immediately...

 

Thanks for the feedback! I have heard not to to use the OEM gasket, but haven't heard a story about anti freeze and bearings... Since this vehicle's main purpose is to be a winter driver and my commute to work is only 17 miles, I thought I would wait for warmer weather and keep a close eye on the coolant level. Is there a chance damage has already been done to the bearings and how would one detect that?
With the revelation of this needed repair, I'm hoping that my "good buy" doesn't turn into a mistake. The shop also said it could use some shocks ( I knew that) and the pinion seal leaks a little, so will keep an eye on that as well.
Anything else to look out for on a TB with 188k (transmission has supposedly been rebuilt but no paperwork to prove it)?

 

When the oil becomes contaminated with coolant, engine bearing damage can occur rapidly. When the engine is off, the coolant will seperate from the oil and settle on the bottom of the oil pan, right where the oil pump picks up oil on the next start. Water is a great lubricant on a slip & slide, but it will destroy engine bearings very quickly. If the coolant has be changed over to ethylene glycol, the damage occurs even quicker, and is more severe due to the silicate in the coolant, (sand is not a good lubricant ).

 

Oh well yes, that makes sense... I should have clarified the point of leakage is external and there are currently no signs of oil contamination. But, you have put enough fear into me to go ahead and have it done this next week, before any extended driving. I'm going to install a 195 degree stat and change the oil while in there too. Are there any performance upgrades that can be done while the intake is off? I'm guessing not, but thought I should ask.