Im trying to get the parts needed as fast as i can so i can do some work for this saturday the 21st. What i dont know is all the parts i need for UIM and LIM replacement and how much of this stuff can be bought over the counter or online. I dont really have a preference, just as long as i get the stuff before friday.
Crash(ryan) and I are trying to get this done for his 2003 SSEI, and my 2001 SLE. And Im going to end up ordering all the parts. Anybody have any ideas the best way to tackle this?


I know the SSEI may need different components then my SLE.

Your best bet, especially if you want the parts within a couple days, is to order them from INTENSE. I did my LIM last weekend, and got the parts I needed in 3 days from INTENSE. I did get most things from the local auto parts stores.

As far as Ryan'* SSEI, he will need:

SC gasket w/ 2 yellow o-rings $10-20 ($20 at INTENSE)
Aluminum-frame gaskets for L67 - $50
Pipe sealant with PTFE for LIM bolts- $19
Upper coolant elbow - $10
TB gasket (unless you take the SC off with the TB attached [I did because I cleaned it the week before I did my LIMS])
Thermostat gasket $2
Ultra Copper gasket goop for the LIM corners

As far as your L36, you'll need basically everything he does besides the SC gasket (of course). You'll want to make sure you get the LIM aluminum frame L36 gaskets too. If you haven't, you'll probably want to get the new and improved UIM kit. Since I've never done the job on an L36 someone else can help you more.

Nice list Pete (bring a tear to my eye seeing him name it all off that well).

The pipe sealant is from GM (dealership)
I've found the SC to LIM gasket at Advance/Autozone (it includes the o rings) for under $10
INTENSE rocks on the aluminum LIM gaskets and you can get something else while ordering Thermostat if you are thinking about one.

I also suggest brake cleaner to prep all metal surfaces for a gasket. Your weapon of choice for cleaning off old gaskets and if available a wire wheel or brush for cleaning the old crud off bolt threads.

If thinking about a coolant flush..before you tear it apart is a great time, then simply drain out the water and refill with coolant.

On your upper intake.. APN is the best choice at the moment..however that may not arrive quick enough.

Thanks guys

A Bob Dillon intake is also a great choice for your UIM. I ran one of his on my 99 and had no issues in 40K I had it on.

The "Upper coolant elbow" Pete listed is actually called the "coolant by-pass elbow". It goes between the tensioner and lower intake manifold. I highly suggest you change yours. They're prone to cracking over time. The last time I was hunting for one it was a dealer only item. Cost ~$8.

They can also be found as a package at Pep Boys and some Autozones in the HELP section (red packaging) made by Dorman. $4 for both elbows.

For the 00+ models (Positively) you will need only one elbow if you remove the LIM, both if you remove the tensioner.

The Pipe Sealant and elbows are also available through INTENSE. You could save shipping by ordering most of your stuff from them. Though the SC gasket IS cheaper at Advance Auto and the yellow o-rings are already included.

When you do this may I suggest you take the tensioner off and replace both elbows. I just got done doing this this weekend and ended up with a brand new elbow leaking because of the way you need to put it into the tensioner and LIM at the same time.
Just take the 2-3 extra bolts out and save yourself the headache.

Just my 2cents, Mike

I have preparing to do this job on my 1998 model ( only 67k mi) and have a few questions
( sorro for if redundanby I want to make sure ) - Thanks

1. What is the URL for INTENSE ?
2. Pipe sealant - ( will the Permatex white thread sealant be ok ) ?
3. Elbow sealant ( which to use ) ?
4. Any other recommended cleaners or sealants ?

Please don't dig up old threads. Feel free to start a new thread and link back to this one.

Thanks!!