So I am tackling the job of pulling the TB, Plenum and Runners today to
for diagnostics, maintenance and vanity (respectively) and had a few
questions or looking for suggestions on an '84

*I know this is long, and a lot of questions...so don't feel like you need
to answer all or any, great direct advice from this brain trust so share
what you like or experience :)*

   1. *After getting the runners, plenum, TB and s-boot off I can see this
   being a pain to get back on*. I have heard Left to Right. Start with
   Plenum, etc, etc...seems all over the place. Any suggestions or favorite
   links?
   2. *There are plastic pads (gaskets) at the bottom of the air runners,
   are these reusable?*
   3. *I would like to clean the top of the engine while I have everything
   off.* How do you guys cover the holes there while you are cleaning? I am
   thinking some degreaser and a wire brush but scared of getting crud in the
   holes (don't know the formal name?) Suggestions on covering so they are
   watertight?
   4. *I want to paint plenum and runners*. Any suggestions on paint or
   process?
   5. *TB is out and want RnR..any best practices there?* it seems to be
   fairly air tight (no gaping holes I can see) Think I can spray the inside
   down with PB or something? Want to do the Plenum and Runners as well.
   6. * Looking for a vacuum line plastic "T" that comes off the right side
   of the plenum.* It has a large connector and a small connector. Broke
   mine redoing the vacuum lines a couple weeks ago. Its kluged together but
   can't hold for long and I can't seem to find it online. Any one know if
   this part is available and where?
   7. *What do you guys use for clamps on the intake runner connectors? *The
   ones on my van are crimped but not sure if that is still the best way to
   go, they didn't come with my replacements from online vendor. They are the
   stock replacement...sort of meshed cloth.

Thanks as always for your collective wisdom!

Ryan Perry
Asheville, NC
Artie McPartie '84