HELP !!! Plenum Vacum Leaks

zalaisr · #1 (**permalink**) 05-10-08, 06:22 PM

Hello Everyone!!!
My 2000 Eldo ETC has a vacum Leak. When I spray Starter Fluid on the rubber boot at the back of the throttle Body where it connects to the Plenum with a Hose Clamp the engine races for a few seconds. Any suggestions anyone? I have been told that it is the rubber boot that is cracked. Is That easy to replace? Do i have to remove the intake to replace the boot. All comments will be graciousely accepted. Thanks Everyone
John

submariner409 · #2 (**permalink**) 05-10-08, 06:33 PM

Go to www.rockauto.com and get a set of intake manifold gaskets. The dealer has the rubber plenum for about $35. Bleed off the fuel pressure and disconnect the injector wire connectors. Lift the fuel rail and injectors together. The intake bolts will be very easy to pull: the torque is only 8 ft/lb. Loosen the plenum hose clamp. Pull the PCV hoses.

Clean everything up with a shop vac, pull the plenum clamp bolts and clean the throttlebody passage with TB cleaner, NOT choke cleaner (different solvents). Clean the intake, but realize that it is impossible to get it squeaky clean: lots of twists and turns. Make sure the overpressure valve in the end of the manifold seals properly. Replace the plenum, place the intake gaskets and land the manifold, barely snugging the bolts down in a sequentially enlarging criss-cross pattern. Snug them again, then final torque the sequence to 8 ft/lb. Land the fuel rail/injectors and connect. Replace the PCV piping.

Check everything. Enjoy.

zalaisr · #3 (**permalink**) 05-10-08, 07:19 PM

Can't the boot be replaced without R&R Plenum?

**Ranger** · #4 (**permalink**) 05-10-08, 09:07 PM

The boot technically IS the plenum, unlike on other engines where it is the manifold.

zalaisr · #5 (**permalink**) 05-11-08, 04:25 PM

Thanks U- 2 ...I started the R&R today. It is a little scarry but I have a book and this forum and Know how skills. I pulled the fuel pump fuse & started the car to releive preasure & also pressed on the relief valve!!!!DAAA!!1 Will replacing the boot be sufficient or should I replace the Plenum as well? Any suggestions on things to check while I'm at it or possible upgrades? car has 74k on it and well babied.Thanks again to all!!!John

**Ranger** · #6 (**permalink**) 05-11-08, 04:30 PM

The "boot" and "Plenum" are one in the same on the 2000+ Northstars. That should be all you have to change.

submariner409 · #7 (**permalink**) 05-11-08, 04:54 PM

The rubber "boot" you are referring to is known as a "plenum" in the post-1999 Northstar parts lists. The terminology reverted to the standard Intake Manifold name during the 2000 engine in-service changes to parts and designations. So now the Intake Manifold is connected to the Throttlebody by a rubber Plenum. OK?

Replace the Plenum.........go back and read post #2 again, follow the procedure, check your work, and there are no "upgrades".