Intake Repairs and Insulators

[kray-z-1]

Could use some suggestions on the following problems:

I was installing 3 screw SU's on an E88 intake on my 73. I removed the N36 intake and was installing the E88 when it happened. Apparently some idiot (insert my name here) let the fuel rail bracket get between the intake and the gasket. I learned that aluminum is not forgiving during the tightening down procedure!

I have the original N36 intake cleaned & took the balance tube off the E88 and installed it on the N36. Here are my questions:

What can be done with the cracked E88 intake? Is this something that can be welded. The crack does not go all the way around the intake - just about 3-4 inches.

If I use the N36 intake, which has the shorter studs, I will either have to go to the thinner insulators or replace the studs to the longer ones. Am I better off replacing the studs and staying with the thicker insulators - or doesn't it really matter. I would think replacing the spacers would be easier that removing 8 studs and putting in new ones.

I am not sure but I think the linkage will be ok as I swapped the balance tube.

Besides getting new glasses or taking my tools away - does anyone have any suggestions or ideas?

[Bambikiller240]

I would just get the proper insulators for use with the N36 Intake and be done with it. SOme folks believe that the N36 is a better intake manifold.

I would think that the E88 could be aluminum welded, but that will cost more than the insulators, and if the crack is though an intake runner, the interior of that runner should be smoothed where the repair occurs to avoid creating turbulence that could affect the operation of that cylinder.

Linkage will be fine if you use the balance tube from the E88.

[Ed]

Getting the intake welded shouldn't be a problem. Look in the phone book under "welding". The bad thing is the color of the welded aluminum probably won't match and you will loose the textured surface. If you do go this route take a dremmel tool and clean the runner to remove any casting slag or weld. Removing the studs isn't that hard you can double nut the stud to prevent damaging it. Or you could buy new studs at your local NAPA. They cost about $1.00 a piece .

Good luck