Intake Manifold Gasket Problems

A car engine has many gaskets.

Car engines rely on proper mixtures of air and fuel to perform at peak levels. One component of the engine, the intake manifold, helps with this mixing process, but can have problems with leakage from the intake manifold gasket.

Function

An intake manifold gasket seals the two pieces of the intake manifold assembly together to keep the air and fuel mixture from leaking out. The intake manifold itself distributes this mixture to the engine's cylinders for combustion.

Considerations

Intake manifold gasket problems arise as the engine ages. Current day stock gaskets are made from nylon-filled plastic carriers, which can warp from the constant change of air pressure and heat within the intake manifold's body over the course of a vehicle's lifespan. If a gasket is failing, there may be visible leakage and an obvious decrease in engine performance.

Prevention and Solution

Many aftermarket intake manifold gaskets are manufactured with aluminized steel carrier bodies to shore up the integrity of the gasket. Keep in mind that the torquing of the manifold assembly around the gasket should be monitored to make sure that the gasket is tightened securely, but is not pinched.

References

• Engine Builder Magazine: Closing the Gap on Intake Manifold Gaskets
• AA1 Car: Engine Vacuum Leaks