1996 Ford Taurus coolant plug

Engine Mechanical problem
1996 Ford Taurus 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic

I am considering purchasing a 96 or 97 Ford Taurus from a friend. They tell me that the car has a coolant leak from a coolant plug. They also inform me that the mechanic they spoke too said the part would cost around $3.00 but the repair would cost $800.00 because they would have to pull either the moter of the transmission. Have you guys ever heard of this kind of problem. If so does the engine have to be pulled or is their a simpler fix?