I just want to say I am not only a newbie to this forum I am unfortunately a newbie to working on and even caring about my vehicles to point I actually found one I like and now have two sons I hoping to introduce and learn with them the knowledge and pride in taking care of your car. Thanks

Welcome the the forums, you have come to the right place for repair help/ information.
I think it is great when the kids can see & learn & hopefully end up in shop class!
Even though I have 97 Pk Ave, I noticed you have a 99 Riviera with the same seriesII engine. Great reliable motors and I also like the Riv'* for sure!
In profile you mentioned Music...what do you play?

Mostly the radio anymore, however I dabble still here and there. A little guitar and am looking to learn the fiddle. How about yourself. We had a park ave years ago. I bought this Riviera in March had kinda high miles but was a one owner car a lady drove it for about 50 highway miles everyday. I only paid 1200 for it. After buying I learned it was one of less than 2000 that beibgclast year they where in production also the car my 4 year old son has fell in love with it so we decided we going to do our part to conserve a piece of automotive history. Also thank you for the welcome.

When I got time, I jam a 12 string and often wear the strings and fingers out LOL..
One thing with the 3.8'* is ensuing you look for any coolant leaks & in the future consider replacing the UIM-LIM-upper & lower intake manifold gaskets, if it has not been done.
Feel free to use the search in the forums & browse though these 2 sections a wealth of information at hand here.
1-https://www.gmforum.com/mechanical-1...-index-285327/
2-https://www.gmforum.com/normal-maintainence-138/
These section will help you and your son do everything from tune up to mechanical work to keep your Rivera in top shape!

That was going to be some of my next posts was to ask what suggestions guys had as to things I can do as far as seals and gaskets and all around engine and transmission care

Welcome aboard! Lots of folks here will be happy to help and educate. This is all good stuff to know. Even if you and/or your kids aren't the primary caregiver to your car, it'* good to know enough about your car to know what to do next when things go wrong or when talking to the shops.

Howdy howdy!!!