Update: installed New intake manifold
 

Finally got around to installing my new Dorman intake manifold. I was skeptical about the product but it works swell. I had a crack in the water transfer to the intake connection. This time around I did the job in half the time from when I first did it. I replaced the EGR valve gasket, injector o-rings. I forgot to get throttle body cleaner.

My car functions the way it's supposed to.
The dorman intake from autozone has the torque sequence imprinted on the manifold and the LBS-foot required as well so it's better for novice people like me to do it the correct way.

The intake comes with two brackets but couldn't find where they go so I didn't use them. Does anyone know what they are used for????

extra parts lol

The Dorman intake manifolds are "universal" fit for all 4.6L 2V engines in the series (non-PI or PI). Because of that they come with an assortment of spacers and generator brackets that may or may not be applicable to any specific 4.6L 2V model.

You have a non-PI engine so the Dorman manifold is a suitable replacement, however PI owners should be aware that the Dorman PI intake has a non-PI style lower plenum, and non-PI style runners, grafted to PI flanges.

It is a VERY poor substitute for a real PI manifold, and in fact costs $20 to $40 more than the FRPP PI intake, which IS the OEM intake used on the '02+ PI engines. This is fresh in my head (no pun intended) because just this weekend I convinced a friend with an '02 to bring the Dorman back to Autozone and order the FRPP intake...

I think also on the Dorman for the PI motor, you can't get your socket in for plugs 3 and 4 without either grinding the manifold or the socket. I used the Dorman on my 98 and it was fine. After reading here, when I do my 00 this spring, I will use FRPP, gaskets, and go to the dealer and get the $20 buck alt. bracket.