I have a few questions regarding the intake manifold. Is there a way of permanently sealing the intake? What gaskets are you guys using? Mine has developed a very small leak at the front left corner. I don't want to change the gasket until next spring when I bring her out of winter storage. I am thinking of re-torquing the bolts and perhaps this will stop the leak. Can I remove the runners from the left side of the engine without doing any damage to the runners on the right side, will they support the weight of the plenum? Do you use any type of lock tite on the bolt threads to stop them from loosing?

Any info will be appreciated.

Thanks

Gary

 

What are you leaking? If it is oil coming out the front of the manifold, well, ya gotta pull the intake to fix that one. I personally do not use the gaskets that come with the intake set for this. I use a punch to put dimples in the block, and underside of the manifold, and use a 1/4 inch bead of RTV instead. Apply the bead, let it set for 15 minutes to develope a "skin" then set the manifold straight down on top of it. This will leave a bead both inside, and outside of the manifold, and take care of any leaks.

I use Fel-Pro gaskets, and have had no leaks with them at all. (of course, the engine in my Firebird is still all original, 'cept for a few minor external mods....... I have played with many a motor, and have used this method to great success in the past.)

If you are leaking coolant, either fix it, or don't drive it. Ya don't wanna smoke the motor because of a 12 dollar gasket, and a few hours worth of work.......

 

yeah, thats 12 dollars + a few hours "IF" you dont strip all those bastard torx bolts trying to get them out at all those annoying angles