C2 Intake Manifold Install?

[Ralph E.]

I am about to install my cast iron intake manifold. I attempted a mock installation without using gaskets or RTV. I just realized this baby is heavy. It is difficult to maneuver into place. Is this usually a two-man job? How do you place the manifold onto the RTV end seals and hold the gaskets in place? How do you place the manifold directly in place without causing the gaskets to shift or the RTV to move around?

[John H.]

Re: C2 Intake Manifold Install?

Ralph -

I use a large wooden dowel stuck in the distributor hole in the block to guide the rear of the manifold into place while I worry about its alignment at the front for accurate first-shot placement to avoid "smearing" the RTV. I also use a few spots of Edelbrock "Gasgacinch" on the head side of the side gaskets to hold them in place so they don't move during intake installation.

[Ralph E.]

Re: C2 Intake Manifold Install?

The dowel idea should work. It will help with holding the manifold with two hands. Can a small dab of RTV be used to hold the gaskets in place instead of Edelbrock "Gasgacinch". Can't get to a auto parts store today. We're getting about 8+" of snow. I'm snowed in and going crazy.

[Bob R.]

Re: C2 Intake Manifold Install?

I used a little dab of RTV on my gaskets last time I installed a manifold. It worked fine. Make sure you torque the bolts in the proper sequence. Start middle out finger tighten first.

[Ralph E.]

Re: C2 Intake Manifold Install?

Would you suggest a dab at each end of the gaskets, let it set for a few minutes and then put the gaskets in place.

[Jim T.]

Re: C2 Intake Manifold Install?

You could use some 3M weatherstrip if you have any handy. Apply to both surfaces let it dry and then put it on, should hold in place.