coolant lead from timing chain cover gasket
 

Have been having a persistent coolant loss that I just couldn't track down. In the past two years I've replaced a leaking radiator and heater core, but problems persisted. Finally sought help from a trusted mechanic and he found the leak coming from the top side of the timing chain cover gasket. The truck is a 1996 extended cab model with a 3.2 cu. in., 5 ltr. V-8, with 163K on the clock. Mechanic quoted about $918 for the repair, saying it essentially requires removal of the front of the engine. He also recommended against doing the repair given the overall condition of the engine. It runs smoothly and quietly, and doesn't overheat. However, mechanic says freeze plugs are getting rusty, and other problems are sure to develop in time. He suggested I first try one of the Bar's Stop Leak products. Would anyone like to comment on whether that would likely have a good probability of curing a timing chain cover gasket leak? All suggestions are appreciated.