intake manifold and sludge

[jaulette]

I have a 99 explorer that needs intake manifold replaced. removed and engine is pretty sludged up. suggested to me that I need to replace engine due to sludge build up or I can take my chances and replace manifold. However the job won't be guaranteed.

It is a 99 explorer sohv. it was also suggested that i just get the manifold repaired and flush the oil very soon after. any other suggestions.

Thanks

[Davescort97]

Sludge won't hurt anything as long as it stays in place and isn't loosened up. Have the intake manifold replaced and don't try to remove the sludge and it will be all right. I would have the oil changed, but wouldn't run a flush through the engine, 'cause it will loosen all the sludge and start clogging the oil filter and possibly the oil pump inlet screen.

There are 2 opinions about sludge build up. 1 is to disturb it as little as possible and 2 is to completely clean it out. I go along with leaving it alone.

[danielsatur]

It's because of the PCV + EGR gase's, your good.

[jaulette]

Thanks guys. That's what I'll do then. There was some sludge that was disturbed when the cover was opened. But I shouldn't be worried. I think I added a pic as attatchment below. Not sure how this all works. Preciate the help.

[jaulette]

had the intake manifold installed. now picking up a fuel smell while the vehicle was warming up to come home from work. could this be related to the intake manifold job? or maybe something different now..have only put 20 miles on since the repair.

[Davescort97]

I'd pop the hood and take a look at whatever fuel lines you disconnected to replace the manifold.

[jaulette]

apparently the o-rings needed to be replaced. They had to order them. Part of the manifold job or do you think I'll be paying for the o-rings and labor?