I've decided I'm going to replace my LIM gaskets, UIM gaskets, and UIM just as insurance (it'* leaking slightly out, but no coolant in the oil, and I'm pretty sure by the manufacture date that the UIM is original).

So far, I'm going to get the aluminum LIM gaskets, the coolant elbows, new coolant hoses (mine are 10 years old), new thermostat and gasket, and obviously new UIM and gaskets. Is there anything else I should look for while I'm in there?

Also, I heard rumors of an aluminum UIM (although I don't believe it). Is my best bet to just buy the plastic replacement from GM? Are there any other performance parts I can get in while I'm in there? Should I buy the stock coolant hoses from GM or should I seek a non-OEM alternative?

Now, my friends and I have a basic understanding of engines, and can probably get this done in one day by troubleshooting (and with some cheap beer), but are there any tips and things I should watch out for, or tools I should pick up (besides the ordinary stuff).

http://www.automotivepartsnetwork.co...product=229679

I used the UIM kit from automotive parts network on my '96 and it seems to be a very good fix. This kit has a larger EGR hole that is sleeved with a steel bushing to protect the plastic from heat and it comes with a smaller diameter "stove pipe" EGR tube that presses into the LIM. The smaller diameter tube allows for an air gap to further protect the plastic.

You are on the right track with the aluminum frame GM lower intake gaskets. Good move.

http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/...e=article&k=38

You will want to go to this link in the "tech info" section and read it if you have not yet done so. There is a ton of information here that helped me a bunch.

Hope that gets you started. I'll let the experts help you from here.

If you can afford, put a new water pump on while you are in there. They are fairly cheap and now would be the easiest to get at it. Also check yor belt too. And you plugs and wires if they ar old.

I might do the wires, but the plugs are relatively new. I'll look into the water pump, might be a little pricey for me to get to atm.

AC Delco water pumps are under 30 bucks at RockAuto.

Are the electric water pumps a good idea? I might throw the cash in to get one if it'* actually beneficial.

Bump for the answer to this, please.

Not unless you are highly modded. Are WP pulleys available to change rotational speed of normal pumps?

Yes. I'm running a 10% underdrive on one of the cars. I strongly suggest no more than a 5% underdrive for a daily driver though.

What are the advantages of an UD for the waer pump?
I know Marty (OlBlueEyesBonne) ran one for a while, and I've been considering one for my '96 if I get it running again.