SteelHead wrote:Yep, that bolt is not in the block - it is in the intake. You can get a used intake manual for around $50 from a wrecking yard, or used aftermarket alloy intakes for SBCs are around $75. Changing the intake it not too onerous. Pull the differential, carb, egr stuff (if you have such) and swap. You will need a gasket kit.
If you are able to drill it out, that is good too - but 5 hrs? Whoof. IF you damage the threads, chase them with a tap. If you destroy the threads, helicoil.
Thank you SteelHead. I was thinking of trying to tackle a TBI rebuild, so now knowing that it's the intake manifold (and the price), I might go that route instead since I'd already likely be removing the TBI anyway.
This truck has been the first time I've done anything more than an oil change all on my lonesome, so there's been some interesting learning experiences (this probably being the, ummm... most 'giving' of those experiences).
This little thermostat housing snafu has occupied more time than the fuel filter, master cylinder, brake booster, indicator lights, and heater bypass combined.
(TMI aside to follow)Each winter, to get me through the ole seasonal depression, I take on a hobby. Last year was building computers, the year before than was woodworking, before than was aquariums, and on and on. This year, I took on this truck. It has certainly kept my brain occupied, but it’s kind of an abusive relationship.