I took off my lower intake manifold today and I noticed a piece of metal missing from one of the bolt openings. I Guess I'm gonna need a new manifold, right?

 

I'd have to go look to be sure, but I think that is the way the intakes are designed. I don't think you're screwed just yet

 

The good doctor nailed it again! The bolt hole at #5 intake runner is the ONLY one that has a slit in it. Ask the doc why.

 

To make it easier to floss there of course!

 

Wow that's strange, I googled lower intake manifold pictures and the pics I saw didn't have a cutout, I thought maybe mine was bad. Well this is a relief.

Rather than start a new thread I should just ask here, how do I go about cleaning the lower intake manifold bolt holes? I have a few hard bristle pipe cleaners but I know that some of the bolt holes go straight through the block and I know some crud and old sealant is gonna fall into the motor. I'm gonna change the oil but I'm still kinda weary of introducing contaminants into the motor. Just do it?

 

Don't worry, I won't critique your internet search abilities. Well, at least not yet anyway. As far as cleaning the holes, stuff a bunch of paper towels into the top of the engine making sure to get up under the open holes, then just run a tap through them. 5/16 X 18 I think is what you are looking for. Then just carefully remove the paper towels...

 

your not necessary screwed ! it looks to me like it's made that way ! what you can do is when you put the intake back on use a bigger washer over the hole and then put the bolt back in !