Hi
recently I replaced the coils and plugs on my 2000 S Type, both sides, and while it wasn't a hard job it was tricky dealing with things with the lower manifold still in the way. I replaced the elbow shaped rubber connection under the lower manifold while I was there and while it looked okay-ish from the outside, I cut it open and checked the inside. The car has done nearly 190k, and I'm going to assume the elbow has never been replaced, so it was very due. Oh, and by the way? After reading over and over the manifold gaskets were fine to re-use? In my opinion, they weren't so do yourself a favour and just replace them when you're that deep in the bowels of the engine..

 

WOW! 190K Km(m?)? That's amazing. Mine went at just around 80K miles. Maybe it is the second one. Good decision to change it anyway.