The '86 2.5L intake manifold heater hose connection is out of the way of the ignition system.
Will the proper function be maintained if the '86 connection is installed at the alternator end of a 1987 intake manifold?

quote Originally posted by David Hambleton: The '86 2.5L intake manifold heater hose connection is out of the way of the ignition system. Will the proper function be maintained if the '86 connection is installed at the alternator end of a 1987 intake manifold?

So you have a 1987 and you want to use a 1986 intake manifold on an 87 cyl head?

I don't see why it wouldn't but I would assume that one way was more efficient. I can't really answer your question since I've only ever had an 84 and an 85 for 4 cyls; however, I would suggest you try it, and just keep a close look on the temperature. Make sure you burp the cooling system carefully though... you can crack a head really easily.

[QUOTE]Originally posted by 82-T/A [At Work]:
So you have a 1987 and you want to use a 1986 intake manifold on an 87 cyl head?

I'm putting an 87 engine in an 86 car. The 87 has a long heater hose from the transmission side of the manifold to the right side of the frame. The 86 has a short formed hose from the alternator side of the manifold.

I suspect the same internal cavity is accessed by the several plugged holes. I'm thinking of swapping the hose connection locations, not the manifold.

There are many differences between the 86 & 87 ignition & fuel management systems. I'm opting for the way more exotic 87. Lol!

[This message has been edited by David Hambleton (edited 11-10-2013).]

I have a 85 car with a 87 engine. An extension hose was added from the stock heater hose on the engine manifold to the passenger side .

Short answer, yes I think.
When pulling the plug will quickly show coolant or not.

Might need to cut tube to 1 90° and use longer hose with no kinks.
If cut... use 1-2 solder bumps to help keep hose blowing out if a clamp get a little loose. Bumps go on outside next to the cut.
example:


When I change the 87 fittings... I will use other port if possible. It stops leaking coolant from killing the DIS brick.

See my Cave, Heater

------------------
Dr. Ian Malcolm: Yeah, but your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should.
(Jurassic Park)

The Ogre's Fiero Cave (It's also at the top and bottom of every forum page...)

Thank you for the replies. I removed the original hose by cutting the aluminum crimped end. I'm going to use regular heater hose & clamps initially; if any problem develops I'll try the '86 style.

If engine is out.... always replace the fitting. Old fitting can leak from taking apart etc.