Cleaning Intake Manifold

[SnowSurfLax]

Is there a way to clean the intake manifold without taking the damn thing off?

I cleaned my throttle body and MAF today and it seems to idle a little better. I'd like to to clean the whole intake manifold if I could. I hate paying the mechanic $90 for such a simple service.

On a side note, anyone have any experience with exhaust leaks? My QX seems to make a noise which almost sounds like it doesn't have quite enough oil (though I checked it today and she's totally full) but it seems to go away when it warms up all the way. The sound is more distinguished when the window is closed and also only makes the sound when under load.

Any ideas?

[Qxxx4]

i think it may be an exhaust leak because mine does the same. Dont worry about the oil when the engine is on, its supposed to be almost nothing on the dipstick because it is being used in your engine! Even the manual says to let the engine be off for at least 10mins before checking oil so that the oil can drain from the engine into the oil pan (where the dipstick measures from) Also make sure your on a leveled surface.

[joestrummer77]

RE: Exhaust leaks

May be the exhaust tubes located at front of vehicle, but I think it's only 2002/3 models.... There's a TSB for this....I believe the part# for fix is #20711-5W90A. OPeration code FX09AA.

Mine was HORRIBLE, and did not manifest itself until after about 9 months (I bought a 2002 QX$ used in December 2005).

After the fix UNREAL difference. The seams/welds on the front exhaust tubes crack causing the issue. Again, not sure is this TSB applies top yours, but hey it's worth a try. Hit Edmunds.com and check TSBs.

Good luck,

Nick

[SnowSurfLax]

Thanks!

I'll check it out. It's gotta be small as the noise doesn't cause any of the 100 cops that patrol my ghetto neighborhood to look my way. I could see just a small seal or weld leak. But it's a 1999.5, so probably not part of that later problem.