Cover around exhaust manifold rusted away?

[1989GrandWagoneer]

Okay...here goes.

On the exhaust manifold is a thin metal (what I guess I'll call a cowling?) that has an opening where the hose coming from the air filter unit connects to it.

This has rusted away, so now the air/exhaust is not getting into the manifold very well.

Is this something that is replaceable for a rookie, or am I off to the shop with my checkbook?

Here is a picture of the piece I'm talking about out of Haynes. I've circled the piece that is rusted away in white.

http://www.apexnc.com/exhaust.jpg

Thanks for any advice,

M Wilson

[The Anti-Chrysler]

Welcome to the board!! smile.gif

You're looking at the heat stove for the hot-air intake. I've never seen them replaced. If you live in a cold climate where it's very necessary, then I would recommend replacing the manifold with a good used one that has it on there. There are plenty out there, place a post in the "wanted" section, and members of the board could probably help you out.

[1989GrandWagoneer]

Thanks AC,

Well, I live in North Carolina, so it's not real cold, but it gets cold enough.

So, you're saying that piece isn't really a necessity? Does it affect the emissions or anything like that?

It looks like that piece would be easy to replace, but of course I'm clueless:)

Any idea on how much I'm looking at to replace the manifold?

Thanks for the quick help!

Mark Wilson

[ May 27, 2003, 03:12 PM: Message edited by: 1989GrandWagoneer ]

[chrism]

Unless you are required by emissions inspection to have that piece on there I wouldn't bother. Its purpose is to route some warmer air from the exhaust manifold into the carb for cold starts. Chances are that if that is rusted away the little flap in the air cleaner housing probably doesn't work either.
Mine is also long gone and I have no problems with cold starts during the winter up here. You should be fine down in NC.

[ May 27, 2003, 03:23 PM: Message edited by: chrism ]

[woodybeone]

I made a replacement out of sheet metal and pop rivited it around the manifold. Been on for several years now.

[1989GrandWagoneer]

Thanks everyone for the great feedback!

I really appreciate the information and the fast responses...I'll try to get by without it and see how that goes, but I like the sounds of those pop rivets Brian smile.gif

Thanks again,

Mark