Leaking at what seems to be the back top area of the engine even without the engine runnung, a buddy told me there is a coolant hose at the back of the intake manifold, is this true? I guess if there is it's not cheap to fix.

 

I'd be willing to bet this is the notorious intake manifold leak, suprised yours took this long to leak if it is indeed the manifold.
there is also a quick disconnect hose on the passenger side near the front of the engine that could also be the issue but you should be able to see that leaking.
do a forun search on the intake manifold coolent leak and it should give you some insight.
I had minerepaired at the dealer some years back on my 1997 tahoe.

 

here is one form the Tahoe forum, Id be willing to bet this is the same issue your seeing

https://chevroletforum.com/m_32889/tm.htm



Here is one more on the topic from another forum

http://www.automotiveforums.com/t706...lant_leak.html

 

Thanks in2pro, how much did it cost you yo get yours fixed and how long did it take?

 

I had it done back in 2002 on my 1997, If I recall it was about $600-700 and it took a good part of the day to complete, but I also had several other srevices done that day like, transmission and diffrental serviced, also thefuel system , my total bill was about $1000 that day.

 

Thanks in2pro.
I took mine to a good local shop and yes you are right $600 to $700 is what I was quoted.