Definatly replace the intake manifold bolts, I bought a set from the Chrysler dealer, about $2.50 each (up here in Canada, I'm sure they will be cheaper in the U.S.) but its good insurance, I bet you 80% has a broken bolt already or they break removing them, my broken bolt was at the back drivers side.

 

i just went with the gasket easier cheaper with some cash left for spark plugs cap rotor and 180 tstat i run her hard so far 4 months and 4000 some miles not problem but i always keep a qt just incase

 

You will probably get to do the job again then, if you keep the truck any appreciable about of time.

 

Why take all the time to dig in there and just to have to do it all over again? Add in the $50 for the plate and do it right only 1 time.

 

not trying to ruffle anything but i know of atleast 30 some ppl who have done the gasket and have had nothing wrong with some of which have had already 100,000 + miles on them so its not necessary to get the aluminum piece but it is a great way to have that extra insurance and piece of mind.

 

^Prolly used shorter bolts to.
And didn't have extensive mods that require wringing it out every once in a while...

 

i must say the trucks that i know used the gasket where mainly for hauling trailers and boats as well as normal highway and city non of which were drag strip trucks. so if your still worried about it . you might as well set urself at ease and just get the 1/4 plate . if i had the cash i would of done the plate but i was to busy putting gas in it ha. but the gasket does work

 

Could you just cut the tip off of the bolts and just replace the gasket? This is just a question because I'm curious. I'm going to use the new plate. I don't want to have to do this twice

 

it depends on how much you wanna gamble on subscriptions..

I personally subscribe to the theory that the bolts are too long and proper torque can't be achieved and maintained, but the other theory says two different metals expand/contract at different rates which causes the gasket to give..

50/50 shot, right? But what if you're wrong? or, what if it's a little of both?

the hughes plate and those like it address either..

 

Add an extra washer.