For my 93, does the UIM always need to be replaced or just the gaskets? It appears to be in one piece, and the only source of degradation appears to be as shown in the first pic, but that is just one spot, and the others are ok. But the gaskets are FLAT.

Also, what do you make of that one intake port on the left being of lighter color than the other 5?

56k warning, pics are linked because they are too big to embed, and to show detail:

http://www.clanmob.net/hosted/bonnev...r/DSC01179.JPG
http://www.clanmob.net/hosted/bonnev...r/DSC01180.JPG
http://www.clanmob.net/hosted/bonnev...r/DSC01181.JPG
http://www.clanmob.net/hosted/bonnev...r/DSC01187.JPG

The UIM shouldn't have to be replaced on an L27. The L36 UIM was the one that is problematic.

Yours isn't the first LIM I've seen where the pass. side runner is lighter in color. I forget the reason why it'* like that, but I don't think you have anything to worry about.

The EGR tube is on the driverside. This is main reason behind that tube being so clean. Looking..you can see how the driverside is much darker..and it lightens as you move to the passenger side.

I would replace the gasket and be done.

One other thing, for the LIM, when I "dab the corners" with RTV, is that just the end seals or for each of the LIM gaskets?

Sorry for the dumb questions, I just want it done right the first time (and im learning alot!)

Dab the corners..put all the gaskets in place, lightly dab the top of the corners.

One other thing, how do I get that hose (heater hose?) off behind the bypass one? It doesn't seem to be twist off or anything.

http://www.clanmob.net/hosted/bonnev...r/DSC01189.JPG

It slips out when you pull the LIM to the driver'* side of the engine bay. There'* an o-ring inside that will stay on the tube. It may be hard to break loose, so wiggle it around a bit while a helper pulls the LIM toward the driver'* strut tower, and slightly upwards.

When putting it back together, smear a little water pump sealant/coolant rated goop around the o-ring before sliding it back in. This is AFTER you clean out the hole, of course.

Looks like you already have a replacement steel bypass barb fitting. Make sure it'* not rusting too badly on the inside, and restricting flow. If it looks ugly, replace it. Most NAPA, Autozone, Advanced stores etc. now have the steel replacements for a couple bucks.

Is it ok when a little coolant makes it inside? there are a few drops around the rods on the right and left and several drops I think made it down the hole into the oil pan.

http://www.clanmob.net/hosted/bonnev...r/DSC01190.JPG
http://www.clanmob.net/hosted/bonnev...r/DSC01191.JPG
http://www.clanmob.net/hosted/bonnev...r/DSC01192.JPG
http://www.clanmob.net/hosted/bonnev...r/DSC01193.JPG

Just change your oil in 50-100 miles. You'll be fine.