Series II 3800 upper intake fix

[SuperFudd]

A "search does not show that this has been been mentioned berfore.
A "cheap" fix kit for the plastic upper intake manifold and EGR problem can be found here:
http://ken-co.com/manifold/default.htm

I have no experience with this. Has any of you?

I have a 96 3.8L Regal with about 80K miles and am quite fond of it. I am comming into enough money to get a new car but I think I will keep the Regal for another 100k instead. I am willing to put bucks into preventive maintanance for it and I know it's weak spot is the intake manifold.
I may take it to my Buick dealership and let them upgrade the manifold.
Which route should I go with? I am sure they will have a favorite way but I would like to know something about it before hand.
Am I correct in understanding that the EGR passage to the plastic upper intake manifold it coolant cooled and the meltdown will not happen as long as the cooling system cools it properly?

[BNaylor]

Actually the subject is well discussed on AF. Try the other GM "W" and "H" body forums. That Kenco kit is OK if you do in fact have a UIM EGR problem. I don't think it is worth it for the time and cost. So you would have to confirm it is needed first and that requires removing the UIM. Most people go with the improved aftermarket UIMs made by Dorman/Motormite and APN which come with reduced diameter EGR stovepipes.

I have seen UIMs from 95-98 model GM cars with the SII 3800 engine with no EGR meltdown problems. If you do have the problem there will be internal coolant loss as a major symptom.