2000 lower intake gasket

Hello everybody, I need some help, could someone tell me if I need thread lock on the lower intake manifold bolts. Stuck I can't find this anywhere.
Thanks

I didn't use any and the service manual doesn't mention it.

I would not use it.
If the manual does not mention it.......don't use it because it will impact the torque values.
You would need to use less torque if thread lock was used, and, since it is not mentioned in the manual, you don't know how to adjust the torque value to compensate for it.

A couple of hints.
I would recommend using a "beam" style torque wrench.
You may not hear/feel a "clicker" style click......and end up breaking a bolt.
It happened to me......and has happened to a couple other folks on this job.
It seems that a beam style is the way to go for the low torque values.

Do not add any extra RTV sealant outside of any that the instructions mention.
It will not help....and likely cause problems.
If the instructions for your year call for RTV (my '96 called for just a small dab at the corners where the gaskets meet the end seals) make SURE that the sealant is "sensor safe".
It will say on the label if it is sensor safe.

I would also take this opportunity to REPLACE the metal cross over pipe (bypass, heater, or whatever name is given in the manual you are using).
This is the metal coolant pipe that goes through the intake and has been mentioned a number of times in this forum as a item that can rust and leak.
Since you are right there......and the part is not expensive, it is a good time to replace it.

When cleaning the aluminum surfaces on the head and the lower intake manifold.....where the gasket is seating, do NOT use metal tools (razer blade, etc) as they will leave small scratches in the soft aluminum.
Use nylon/wood tooling and a good solvent.
HOWEVER use extreme care to avoid having junk/fluid go down into the intake passages in the head....where it will be drawn into the intake valves/cylinders when you start up the engine.

The link in my signature will take you to pictures of projects that I did on my '96 3.8L.....including the lower intake manifold gaskets.
While the upper intake manifold on the '96 is MUCH different than 1999 and newer....the lower intake manifold is very similar as far as the lower intake manifold gasket.

You MUST change the engine oil and filter after you change the lower intake manifold gasket....BEFORE starting the engine.