Hey all!

Just got my Bonneville from the dealership yesterday. I plan on getting the intake manifold and gasket replaced, ASAP. Buying the parts myself and paying my local mechanic to install it is going to be the cheapest route.

So, here'* what I'm thinking:

Intake Manifold Kit - GM Intake Manifold Kit - iNeedParts.com

Although it sounds like part of the kit above, do I need this? Automotive Parts Network - Auto Parts :: Intake Manifolds :: Lower Intake Gasket Set For GM 3800 V-6 - iNeedParts.com

I'm considering replacing the thermostat while I'm at it, is it necessary?

Also, I will be getting the intermediate shaft lubed up. And I can't seem to find where I can get those multi-colored flashing Angel Eye fog lights. Any Ideas?

Would this be what your looking for?

INTENSE-Racing.com: N/A Upper Intake Gasket Kit

You don't want cheep LIM gaskets, pay for the good ones.

INTENSE-Racing.com: Lower Intake Gaskets (L67/L32)

Oh, wow. Think I'll be able to reuse the plenum? If so, this looks like all I'll need aside from the stat. Thanks!

Not sure on the plenum? For your LIM gaskets you want the alum gaskets like I had listed there, just make sure you got the correct ones for your engine. As for the thermostat, you can get that at any auto parts store like autozone.

Found a new Plenum (the bushing is allegedly part of the problem) for cheap.

1995 - 2004 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE 3800 Intake Manifold Plenum - AM Autoparts

I emailed them to see if this has the steel bushing, if so this is pretty cheap for a new plenum that should correct the coolant/engine destroying problem.

I'd suggest that you purchase the plenum from the first link that you posted. That is the one recommended for a lasting fix, formerly known as the APN kit.

Looks like I'll be ordering the lower intake gasket, and the nicer upper intake manifold kit this weekend. My Bonneville will stay parked until I get the parts and I'll drive my old station wagon until it'* repaired.

Real quick, the "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" light just came on, anything else I should be concerned about outside of the upper manifold, upper gasket, thermostat and lower intake manifold?

What codes do you have?

I'm not sure, it could just be the gas-cap. How do I check the codes? I know Auto Zone can do it.

You would need to go to some place like autozone, or get your own code reader.