A Ram 1500 Owner's Guide to Engine Intake Manifold Gasket Sets (2011-2019)
Fixing a rough idle or mysterious leak on your 2011-2019 Ram 1500? Your intake manifold gasket might be the culprit.
- Failure is common on the 5.7L HEMI, often causing vacuum and/or coolant leaks.
- Always verify your engine (3.6L V6 or 5.7L V8) before buying, as the gaskets are not interchangeable.
- Premium aftermarket brands like Fel-Pro are highly recommended by owners for their durability and superior design.
- While replacing the gaskets, inspect the plastic intake manifold for warping, which is a known issue that can cause repeat failures.
Is Your Ram 1500's Intake Gasket Failing?
A failing intake manifold gasket is a known issue, particularly on the 5.7L HEMI V8 engines found in the 2011-2019 Ram 1500. The original gaskets can degrade over time from heat and exposure to engine fluids. This leads to vacuum leaks, coolant leaks, or both. If you notice a rough idle, poor acceleration, or have to top off your coolant frequently, it's time to inspect your intake manifold gaskets.
🎬 Watch: Common symptoms of a bad intake manifold gasketCommon Issue: Warped Intake Manifolds
Some owners have reported that the plastic intake manifold on the 5.7L HEMI can warp over time, contributing to gasket failure. During replacement, it is crucial to inspect the manifold's sealing surfaces for flatness. If the manifold itself is warped, simply replacing the gasket will not create a lasting seal.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Gasket Set
When replacing your intake manifold gaskets, you have several aftermarket options. The quality can vary, so it's important to choose a brand that will provide a durable, long-lasting seal.
- Premium Brands (Fel-Pro, Victor Reinz): Fel-Pro is a highly trusted name in the gasket industry and a top recommendation among Ram owners. Their PermaDryPlus line is specifically engineered for the repair environment, often outperforming the original OEM gaskets with superior materials that resist heat, coolant, and oil. Victor Reinz is another premium brand often considered to be of OEM-equivalent quality.
- Problem-Solver Brands (Dorman): Dorman often engineers parts to fix common OEM failures. While their standard gaskets are reliable, look for any specific kits they might offer that include improvements over the factory design, such as updated materials or included hardware.
- Budget-Friendly Brands (URO Parts, others): While more affordable, budget brands may use materials that don't have the same longevity as premium options. For a critical component like an intake manifold gasket, investing in a higher-quality part from a reputable brand like Fel-Pro is often worth the extra cost to avoid doing the job a second time.
Pro Tip: Verify Your Engine
The 2011-2019 Ram 1500 came with several engines, most commonly the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and the 5.7L HEMI V8. The intake manifold gaskets are completely different for each engine. Always verify your truck's engine size before ordering parts to avoid costly mistakes.
🎬 Watch: How to replace intake gaskets on the 3.6L V6Cost of Replacing Ram 1500 Intake Manifold Gaskets
The cost can vary significantly based on your location, whether you do it yourself, and the parts you choose. Labor is the biggest variable, as the job can take several hours.
🎬 See this detailed tear down for the 5.7L HEMI| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Gasket Set | $20 - $165 |
| Shop Labor | $250 - $650+ |
| Total Professional Replacement | $350 - $1,050+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any recalls for the intake manifold gasket?
No, there are no specific recalls for the intake manifold gaskets on the 2011-2019 Ram 1500 gasoline engines. However, there was a recall for the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine's EGR cooler, which could crack and cause combustion within the intake manifold. This is a separate issue from the common gasket failures on the 5.7L HEMI and 3.6L Pentastar engines.
Can I reuse my intake manifold bolts?
It is generally not recommended. Many intake manifold bolts are torque-to-yield, meaning they stretch when tightened and are designed for one-time use. For a reliable seal and proper torque, you should always use new bolts if specified by the service manual or the gasket manufacturer.
Do I need to use sealant with the new gaskets?
Most modern intake manifold gaskets, like those from Fel-Pro, are designed to be installed dry without any additional sealant. Applying sealant where it's not required can actually cause the gasket to slip or fail prematurely. Always follow the specific instructions included with your new gasket set.
What are the torque specs for the intake manifold?
Torque specifications are critical and vary by engine. For the 5.7L HEMI, the bolts are typically tightened in a specific sequence to around 105 in-lbs (inch-pounds), but you must consult the service manual for your specific year and model for the correct specs and tightening pattern. Incorrect torque can lead to a warped manifold or a poor seal.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 5184331AC 5184562AC
This gasket set is designed for either the 3.6L Pentastar V6 or the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine. The 5.7L set typically includes 8 individual port gaskets, while the 3.6L requires separate upper and lower gasket sets. Materials are typically molded rubber on a carrier frame.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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