The intake manifold operates as a sort of plenum, drawing and funneling air and fuel from the carburetor to the cylinders or, in fuel injected engines, just air to the injection ports. A measured amount of air is sucked from the manifold into the vacuum and thereby injected, along with fuel, into the cylinders to be ignited. The air drawn into the cylinders will suddenly hit the shut door of the intake valve and will rush back upon itself causing a wave of high pressure in the manifold runners. The intake manifold gasket must be able to withstand this constant change in air pressure.
A leaking intake manifold gasket will contribute to poor fuel economy, higher emissions and poor engine performance. The typical automobile engine runs on a stringently controlled air-fuel ratio. The intake manifold gasket, in conjunction with such mechanisms as the intake valve and the fuel injector computer, maintains that ultimate ratio. Should any of these components begin to fail, the vehicle’s gas mileage decreases, its gaseous emissions increase and eventually the engine stops running altogether.
The proper distribution of air into the cylinders is obviously very important to the efficient operation of the engine. All gasket material has to be pliable and must be installed using a special gasket cement/sealant to ensure that the gasket remains correctly seated. Proper removal and replacement of the intake manifold gasket can be done by a fairly knowledgeable do-it-yourselfer. It should, however, be performed by a qualified mechanic who has the proper equipment and training to do the job quickly and inexpensively.
Call Johnny's today and let us give you an Estimate on replacing your Intake Manifold Gasket. 226-5000
