Background:

I did a boost leak test and replicated what I was seeing with my psi. I was boosting around 8-8.5 PSI consistently.....I got my hands on a boost leak tester....and also on an air compressor. I ran the test and was getting around 8.5PSI of boost. I shot soapy water all over the joints...and the intercooler and intercooler piping were all solid as can be.....I have a leaks from the following places.

1) Elbow to throttle body.
2) throttle body to upper intake manifold.
3) Upper intake manifold to lower intake manifold.


I couldn't check the lower intake manifold gasket.

Questions.

1) Should I replace the lower intake manifold gasket? Does this area usually have boost leaks?

2) I found replacement gaskets from aitkins rotary....I can purchase the TB to UIM gasket, and also the UIM to LIM gasket.I am guessing there is a gasket between the TB and elbow....where can I purchase that gasket?

Thanks everyone!

 

fix the easy two first and run your tests again
once u get into the LIM it's gonna be a mess
i wouldnt do it until there was a reason

 

I just ordered all gaskets from Atkins. Don't be afraid to call them. They are very friendly.

They do not list the gaskets on the spacer in-between the UIM and TB because the gaskets are part of the spacer itself, and the spacer is 80$. You can order it, but they recommended I make my own gasket for that one.

 

A lower intake manifold leak with be a vacuum leak and show itself as a high idle. Spray carb cleaner witht he engine running in the area and see if the idle drops. You do realize you have to pull the turbos to change the lim gasket? I bet your problem is elsewhere.

 

Yea, I realize that...and thats why I am asking. I don't want to pull the turbo's. My idle is around 1,000 rpms right now.....but I am at 6,000ft+ here in the springs area....it was around 750-800rpms at sea level when I drove it out here. I'll change those gaskets out first and re-evaluate the boost pressure it can hold. I am hoping not to change out the LIM to block gasket.

 

There is an o-ring between the elbow and the TB. You can get that from a dealer. LIM is a big job--is this an original engine with an original LIM gasket?

 

The engine was rebuilt about 8K miles ago.....A shop rebuilt the engine for the previous owner. I do not know if the LIM to block gasket was ever changed? I bought the car with boost leaks so I am chasing them all down and fixing everything. I will pick up that O-ring from a mazda dealer.....thanks for the reply.