So, as the title says I have a lower intake man. leak on my 5.0. Well, before I rip it all apart and put in new gaskets should I try just to retorque the bolts on the lower? Also, if I do this, what is the best/easiest way to retorque the lower manifold bolts. My Haynes manual mentions that this should be done after assembly while the engine is hot. Does the upper need to be removed again?

Just a bit of history... I just bought this car and its been on the road with a rebuilt '95 motor for about 8k miles. The vacuum leak has been around for a while, just not too big a problem. Now it is a big leak and the car doesn't like to idle.

Any input or ideas would be great
Thanks
eric

 

You can try to retorque the bolts but sometimes the damage has already been done.Don't try to overtighten the bolts to get it to seal,you will most likely pull the threads.

 

Thanks for the info... I will be doing the entire thing on Saturday. As for the end seals that go on the front and back of the block, should I just use RTV there or the rubber gasket? I have been hearing that RTV seals better.. Any thoughts?

 

You can use RTV, but let it harden for 20 minutes or so before you stick the intake on it. 3M weatherstrip adhesive works well, too. Be warned though...it is hard to get off if you F it up...