Welcome to the forum Mikel, heads can be pulled without removing engine. shbox.com should have a head gasket change write up. and diagrams, pics, etc.
Also, if you would go to 4th gen section and open thread titled GM service manuals, you will find the 96 factory service manual for download. Wouldn't hurt to download the 4th gen parts books found in sticky threads of the same section.
Also, if you would go to 4th gen section and open thread titled GM service manuals, you will find the 96 factory service manual for download. Wouldn't hurt to download the 4th gen parts books found in sticky threads of the same section.