Hello all!

I have a 1998 Mazda 626 4cyl 100K mi.

I am looking for anyone with tips/tricks to removing and installing an intake manifold, I do have the repair book and have read it. The reason for this repair is to replace the leaking intake manifold gasket because it is leaking air causing P0171 code. I am also replacing the other 2 gaskets while I’m there (EGR,Throttlebody)

1) can this be done by one person (me). I’m not new to working on cars

2) do I need to really remove the coolant?

3) how do you reach the lower intake manifold bolts? Can I even get a torque wrench in there?!?

 

1. yes, if you are patient and have plenty of time.

2. yes. there should be coolant passages in the intake manifold. if there are, you will get an unbelievable amount of coolant leaking out of it. if the car is up on jack-stands, you can almost drain every last drop of coolant from there.

3. probably can't get the torque wrench in there, but you can get banana wrenches in there. if you don't have a set of those, talk to the snap-on man. that's the only place i know of who still sells them. they sure do make life a lot easier.

as for tips, just be patient. the intake manifold is pretty rough on your car, but it can be done.