I’ve made a couple attempts at replacing an intake manifold gasket to solve a big vacuum leak. Used carb spray to find it eventually but after a couple tries and resurfacing I’m starting to think the leak might not be the manifold after all.

Any tips for diagnosing / pinpointing leaks?

any tips for getting the gasket right? I feel like I can’t be that dumb

any help appreciated. I need wisdom. Thanks in advance


1986 pickup 22r aisin carb 4x4 manual

used felpro or oem gasket. Tried once with gasgasinch. Torqued to 14 foot pounds. Last attempt went up to 18. bolt pattern center out in stages. Resurfaced on 400 grit belt sander and checked with straight edge. Was pretty warped/ pitted

 

You can try a smoke machine to find a vacuum leak. I've seen youtube videos of homemade ones. Here's a video of one you can get off amazon.

 

Nice video !