Pontiac Repair: Lower intake manifold gasket leaking..., intake manifold gasket, montana minivan

Question
I have a 2000 Pontiac Montana minivan V6 3.4L with 143K miles.  I was told I have a upper intake radiator leak. Is this something I can change myself?  They mentioned I neede to change the oil when the job was done (I just changed it).  What do I need or can you recommend a service manual?

Answer
Hey Jonathon:

This is a job left best for the professional. It's very involved and depending on where that van was originally sold it may have extra emission control parts on it which makes the job even worse. If your handy than have at it but The job really is not easy. As for manuals try Chiltons,motor or alldata if you know someone that repairs cars alldata is good but you need an account with them to look at it on line. I can tell you buy the factory replacement part lower intake manifold gaskets they are redesigned and don not leak as often. stay away from after market parts on this job. the reason for an oil change is 2 fold the gasket usually fails and it leak coolant into the engine crankcase and also you get dirt into the engine when you replace this gasket. Good luck :)