Changing headgaskets, anything else while it's apart?

It looks like I have a blown headgasket. Local mechanic is going to fix it for me because it would take me a month to get it done myself. As long as it's apart, is there anything else I should be replacing or checking?

Thanks.

Hi,
One item which comes to mind would be the spark plugs. The engine, as you probably know is transverse, so one side of it is tucked well under the cowl,(base of windshield), and it is very difficult to access those three plugs. I do not know your mileage, but if anywhere near 100 grand I would add the new plugs since your mechanic will have the top of the engine removed. I also would remind him of the history of this engines intake manifold gasket dilema. you should make sure he uses the updated gasket and torques the bolts correctly. I know you are probably thinking he should not have to be questioned, but anyone can and does fumble sometime and it is your money.
Regards,HC2000:)

Also , have this plug gasket where the distributor used to be, it is known to start leaking and is a pain to get at when engine in one piece.
My brother just got his 2002 Montana done to-day for same reason as yours and it was mentioned new head bolts were to be used that are tightened to a higher torque than originals.

You'd be wise to check out this thread (http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=321467). It is more geared for the do-it-yourselfer, but there is also extensive discussion on a lot of things that can also be replaced. This thread (http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=429271) may also be some help.

Off the top of my head here's a list of things that can be easily checked and/or replaced while you are doing a head gasket:
Replace Spark plugs, check wires
Replace O2 sensor if > 75k miles and it hasn't been done
Oil drive shaft gasket (also can add paper gasket from the 3400 distributor engine as a secondary gasket) - $2 part and your old one WILL have deteroriated
head gasket - duh
upper/lower intake gasket - might not have been leaking, but it's not reusable and should be replaced
valve cover gaskets - they are probably older and won't seal well after things are tightened back down so you might just spend the money now
resurface heads (must be done at a minimum)
check head for warping, cracks, pressure test (should be apart of the resurfacing)
valve rockers, guides, seals, springs, values, etc (optional, but you'll never had an easier time to look at them)
Radiator hoses - check and replace as appropriate
serpentine belt - check and replace as appropriate
temp sensor - it's a fairly easy thing to replace even if you aren't doing your heads, but the engine is torn apart anyways
coolant/oil/filter - duh
new head bolts (not absolutely required, but bolts should be replaced as they are torque to yield)
new intake manifold bolts (recommended)
Check/replace the coolant hoses and clamps leading to the heater core(s). Look for leakage. You absolutely will never have an easier time getting those clamps off. Trust me on this one.
Cross over pipe bolts (your going to break them anyways when you try to loosen them)

Total cost for everything when I did my heads was < $500 or so IIRC and that including shop costs for resurfacing the heads. That was with me doing the work. Most of the things that are listed as things that should be replaced shouldn't carry an additional labor charge or very minimal as they were going to have to be removed anyways and it's just a matter of putting a new one back in.