I haven't seen many of you posting about using this tool that is suppose to save from having to remove the rear valve cover when replacing the lower intake manifold gaskets. Has anyone that has done the IMG's used this tool? It sure looks like it works pretty good. Here is a link of it being used:

http://tinyurl.com/5a64nu

From the looks of it they didn't have to remove the alternator either - (but that maybe because they are working on a 3.1 vs. 3.4 ??) If I get this tool can I do the GM 3.4L in the Venture without having to take off the rear valve cover and alternator?

If so it seems it would be worth buying the tool.

I've talked to a couple of people who have used this. It does work - you don't need to remove the alternator and bracket, coil pack, or rear valve cover.

Now, with that being said, here's my $0.02.

The valve covers do not attach to only the head. The valve covers attach to the head and the intake manifold. I believe there is a great risk of having an oil leak by removing the intake and having to reuse the gasket between the rocker cover and intake. There is a notch where the the head and intake meet and the gasket has a small "v" that goes into the notch. You also have to apply sealer (I used Ultra Black RTV) to this area. You risk a leak if the area isn't completely clean and dry before applying the RTV.

When reinstalling the lower intake, you have to set it straight down and not slide it around. I don't know how easy this would be with rocker cover still in place.
http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n113/rdh2/valvecoverinstall-1.jpg


I just did the intake gaskets on my 3.4 and it took all of an extra 45 minutes for the alternator and coil pack R&R and valve cover removal, cleanup, and reinstall. For me it was cheap insurance.

Also due to the access issues on this engine, I took this opportunity to replace the spark plugs and wires. Alot easier with the coil pack off.

As long as I had the alternator off, I took it to Advance Auto to have it bench tested - just peace of mind for me.