So after searching for a while I finally found a new intake tube for my 97 3.4 at a salvage yard for $10 what a deal right? My old one had developed a crack right at the top. Does anyone know why this happened? Also how would I keep my new(used) one from eventually doing the same thing? Did it just dry out of what, has anyone else had this happen? It cracked right in between the alignment notch for the throttle body. Maybe I should soak the end in armor all or something for a while? Thoughts, suggestions?

 

I hear armor all actually drys out plastics and just makes them look "wet".

I did the ISR mod on my 3.0 and I got rid of the whole plastic intake crap. Maybe you can do the ISR or something like that on your 3.4

 

Two things cause this.

First, over tightening. People think you have to crank the clamps down as far and as tight as they can go. DO NOT DO THIS!

Second, rubber by nature gets hard and brittle over time from heat and other factors. 3.0L engines have this exact same problem, and they all split in the same exact place.

 

Wow I didn't realize that over tightening would do this. I may have been guilty of that. So other than over tightening and complete replacement is there realistically anything that I can do? By the way I have seen some of the write-ups on the ISR for the 3.4 but they all used the factory tube and just blocked of some holes and put some pipe fittings in to replave the big box attached to the intake tube. Tubbyfatty, what does your ISR look like? Have you seen anyone do a full replacement for the 3.4? I will steer clear of the amour all from now on. Thanks

 

Might also check your motor mounts. The engine movement puts stress on the intake tube. Air box is bolted to the body, engine moves and something has to give. Usually that movement is absorbed by the flex in the tube, but...with either less flex from old rubber or more movement from the engine or both, stuff happens.

 

Another very good point. How do I need to look at the engine mounts? What signs of wear am I looking for? Hey DeathCougar how is it that over tightening the clamps does this to the tube? Not that I am doubting your knowledge but I am curios?

 

old age


and yes, armor-all doesn't restore or preserve or protect anything. all it is, is something that makes stuff shiny, wrapped up in a big marketing scam to make it seem like you are going to keep everything new forever...when in reality you get some temporary shiny looks at the expense of shortening the life of whatever you put it on. it is fun to put it on dirtbike seats though

 

For an auto and a quick first check, I would open the hood and watch the engine move as you power brake in 1st gear (4WD low if you have it) and reverse. If the movement looks really bad one way, check the mount on the side away from the movement for separation.

 

I was checking out a 4Runner for the wife recently and noticed a 97 with the exact same crack.

I wouldn't use Armorall either. I've used this 303 stuff from a Marine supply store. Heard real good things and after several years, everything still looks good with no cracks.