coolant leak around thermostat

[Robert]

My 2002 Ford Explorer with the 4.6L V8 has started leaking coolant around the thermostat. The leak is between the composite intake manifold
and the metal base of the thermostat housing. I’ve seen a few posts online that mention this being a replace as opposed to a repair issue.
A new intake manifold is available from Rockauto for about $150 (plus shipping) I’ve also seen warnings about the shodiness of some after market
manifolds.
So a two fold question. Is it repairable? i.e. a new gasket or such and if not, what brand should I use for replacement?

Thanks,

Q

Topic

[James]

Yours should have had the intake with the aluminum coolant crossover. Guess you got one before the change over. I would examine that area before committing to replacing the manifold entirely. There is a metal tube that flows coolant to the back of the engine that is also known to develop small leaks that might make it look like coolant crossover is leaking. I’d get a really good shop light in that area with the whole air intake and alternator removed and take a good look around before ordering anything.

[Robert]

Thanks for the idea. I’ll take a look.

[Author]

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