Hello, 2 questions.... Switched from stock to a TA-Stage1 intake, so do I still need the metall plate between my new intake and the carb. gasket?? (Qjet -4bbl). And do I need a zinc additive for breaking in a new engine and cam. Thanks Job
No, Between the stock intake and the black rubber carb. gasket, its a thin metal plate with 4 holes. Looks like a heat barrier or something.
If you look at the stock intake it has a channel with a hole at each end in front of the primaries. The factory setup flowed hot exhaust gases when the engine was cold and the heat riser was closed. This warmed the base of the carb. The stainless shield kept the hot exhaust gases from burning through the carb base gasket. If you've changed intakes and there's no channel....no you don't need it. As for engine break in protection, I tend to be cautious and add GM EOS. I bought 3 cases of it when it was announced it was being discontinued. I use a whole bottle on new engine start up then add 1 oz. per quart at every oil change.
Since the TA aluminum intake does not have hot exhaust gasses passing directly under the primary bores of the carb like the original intake manifold did, you can put the original heat shield on the shelf and just use a generic q-jet base gasket. Devon
