I did my 160* thermostat a while back and I didnt put the intake elbow on right and it was folded. Now it just wont seal properly and I get a SES light saying bank 1 and 2 lean. It hasnt messed anything up and ive been driving with it on for a while.
Is there anything i can do to save it or do i need to get another one?
(1LE and get rid of the donkey dong)

 

mine did the same thing when i put in my stat. you sir are in need of a new 1le elbow.

 

Another benefit with the 1LE is that it is made of thicker rubber and slides on to the TB much easier, meaning it won't fold up.

 

Yep, I love my 1LE intake elbow.

 

how much do those cost?

 

They're like 40 some dollars from one of the discounters, Jason Cromer or Dal. Don't have their addys or phone numbers. Try a search.

 

Even with the 1LE elbow, if you put a little lubrication on the lip, it will slide on the TB like butter.

 

really? that's awesome!

shoebox, what kinda lube? like silicone spray?

 

I have been using a little dab of Vaseline just because I happened to have it handy. By the time I take off the next time, it has evaporated (which is fine and does not make any mess). I can definitely tell a big difference if I don't use it. It's worth a few seconds to smear a little (very thin film) on.

Silicone may damage the O2 sensors. I would not risk it.