Hey guys,

Well I have found a coolant leak from the base of my TPI intake of my 305. It isn't too serious, maybe adding coolant once every 3 days or so to top it off and it only leaks when its cooling down after running.

Now I am looking at replacing the gasket, but heard the intake could be pitted, causing the leak due to it being aluminum. So I had a few questions about possible options..

Engine now has 128k, and I plan on ordering the gasket, and spending a weekend to replace it. If this is pitted, what are my options? All my local junk yards are only carbs, so I can't grab a salvaged intake locally. I can use ebay. Would it be better to use a HSR or similar? I do plan on doing performance updates later so this may be my time to upgrade the intake.

Also, what tips do you have for removing this intake? Seems like a daunting task.

 

Remove it and clean it.

Clean it really really good.

If pitted enough where you would be worried, get 2 part JB weld and mix it up and apply, smooth with old credit card. Let dry completely.

Problem solved.

Might sound stupid but unless its literally ate away it will work.

Most of the time the pitting it not that bad anyhow where using gasket and silicone sealer doesn't take care of it normally.

 

Defintely take the advice of 3.8Transam. I was going to recommend the same thing. JB Weld is the epoxy auto parts stores have sold for years. I used it to repair a badly pitted block (cylinder head mating surface) due to a bad coolant leak. Engine ran great afterwards with no signs of leaks. But usually, silicon sealant is enough. Alternative would be to get another intake. There are tons of TPI intakes for sale on Ebay, I even have an extra one, but it is for 87 - 92 motors, would not fit your 86 motor. Removing the intake is a fairly easy task, just time consuming. Take your time and label everything, even take pictures.