Roger the coolant bypass. Yeah, NAPA has an intake gasket kit for $25.

 

I'm contemplating doing the same thing.

I haven't gone that far into this engine setup yet. Does getting to the timing chain/gears involve removing the intake? If so, I'll go ahead and get that taken care of this weekend too.

EDIT: Nevermind...

 

^It makes it easier to have the intake off.
I had the plenum done on mine as well as the bypass hose and the radiator hose. The rad hose was rotted and ripped when it was pulled off.

 

Now's the time to replace the dist cap, rotor, wires and plugs while the intake is out of the way. Also don't forget RTV, oil/filter, coolant and a new TB gasket.

 

Can't you eave the TB connected to the intake? I just replaced the gasket a few months back.

 

You can but you're going to have to clean the inside of the intake so why not remove it to keep all the nasty crap from gunking up the TB and it's only a $2 gasket. Your choice.

 

Fair enough.

One more question:Is this the correct Coolant bypass hose -

 

Looks to be right.

 

After reading and research I am convinced that my plenum is blown

I can't seem to find a plenum plate anywhere other than online and I would really like to get started on that project completed as soon as possible... so is online the only place I can get it?

 

Yup. Hughes, APS, or Ebay are the only sources I am aware of. (aside from a few members that make them on the side.... but, those are rare.) Ebay plate is the cheapest at 50 bucks. Comes with the bolts. Hughes and APS are about the same.

Source gaskets, coolant, oil, filter, and suchlike locally. Fel-pro gaskets please.