Well, I got an estimate to fix this problem from a couple of local shops that seem to do good work. Estimates were about half of what Firestone wanted, and probably what the dealer would want. The book is 3.5 hours to fix. Not so bad. I asked the shop owner if these engines were good and he said yes once the intake manifold thing is fixed.

 

If you can afford it and plan to keep your Malibu Wildman, then's the time for new hoses, a belt, pcv and etc. Just a suggestion that will pay dividends in the future and 3.5 hours sounds close too (I think Felix was under mine a bit longer but with hoses and such probably add another .5).