lobo411
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- September 14, 2011
- Messages
- 925
- Reaction score
- 61
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- 1996 Explorer 4.0 OHV
Hi all,
I need some quick advice. 1996 Explorer XLT w/ 4.0 OHV 158k. I spent 1.5 hrs this AM tearing down the upper engine so I could retorque my lower intake manifold bolts. I've been seeing a small amount of something brownish/jellyish on my radiator cap and the radiator filler tube, which I think is oil. Also had an occasional ping on hills, and I haven't been able to get the engine above 190 under any conditions. Oil on the dipstick tube looks perfect, trans fluid dipstick tube looks great too. The car is running great otherwise--20 mpg, no codes.
I replaced the lower intake manifold gaskets when I replaced the head gaskets/did a valve job about 30000 miles/10 yrs ago.
I just checked the torque on the lower intake manifold. All the bolts on the Driver's Side were fine (144 in-lbs), and all the bolts on the passenger side were loose by about 1/2 turn.
Now my dilemma:
A. I found my problem--loose bolts. Retorque and sew her up. Leave well enough alone--don't go looking for trouble.
B. You've gone this far--just replace the lower intake manifold gasket. It's just 10 bolts + the valve covers.
Quick thoughts/advice? It's 9 AM here so I have all of today.
I need some quick advice. 1996 Explorer XLT w/ 4.0 OHV 158k. I spent 1.5 hrs this AM tearing down the upper engine so I could retorque my lower intake manifold bolts. I've been seeing a small amount of something brownish/jellyish on my radiator cap and the radiator filler tube, which I think is oil. Also had an occasional ping on hills, and I haven't been able to get the engine above 190 under any conditions. Oil on the dipstick tube looks perfect, trans fluid dipstick tube looks great too. The car is running great otherwise--20 mpg, no codes.
I replaced the lower intake manifold gaskets when I replaced the head gaskets/did a valve job about 30000 miles/10 yrs ago.
I just checked the torque on the lower intake manifold. All the bolts on the Driver's Side were fine (144 in-lbs), and all the bolts on the passenger side were loose by about 1/2 turn.
Now my dilemma:
A. I found my problem--loose bolts. Retorque and sew her up. Leave well enough alone--don't go looking for trouble.
B. You've gone this far--just replace the lower intake manifold gasket. It's just 10 bolts + the valve covers.
Quick thoughts/advice? It's 9 AM here so I have all of today.