Ive developed a coolant leak that looks to be coming from the water inlet hose where it meets up with the thermostat housing unit (the hose that goes from the water pump, under the intake manifold, and to the thermostat housing). Im assuming its just a bad o-ring and it needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, it sounds like I have to take half the engine apart to change one o-ring. If anyone has ever had this problem and knows of an easier way to get to it that would be awesome! thanks!

ps. I know its a terrible fix but could I use a high temp. silicone sealant around the pipe where it fits up to the housing unit? car has 195k on it and im planning on only having it another year or two.