No offense, bro... But just get in there and rebuild the engine.
I have never rebuilt an engine (or even done anything more complicated than a tune-up) in my LIFE, and I tore into a Dodge 5.9L V8 Magnum, replaced every gasket, every hose, the radiator, water pump, plugs, wires, fan clutch... Basically the ENTIRE engine compartment in one weekend, about 16 total hours of work. Only help I had was my wife helping me wrap masking tape around wires to label them.
If I can do it, anyone can do it. It's all about how much you love you alero and if you can front the $100 for the gasket set.
-Brad