I've a '97 4.2 stripped down to long block (heads still on). Replacing all gaskets and seals. My question is what is the proper service on the butterfly (throttle plates) in the lower intake manifold? I've pressure washed and cleaned the egr orifices in the other ports and the manual just says have a Ford dealer service the throttle plates and, yes, I'm sure there's a acronym for those parts I just don't remember what it is. Should I be conserned or just make sure all the shafts rotate and just put it back together? This is a used engine that I'm trying to make sure of few oil leaks as possible, just need to get it installed and running "soon". bl2009

 

Just try to remove as much carbon as possible from the plates and the upper and lower intakes. Also, make sure the IMRC rods have new plastic bushings at each end. This is the time to replace them. One more thing; make sure the vacuum lines are all ok with no holes or cracks.
You might find these bushings somewhere else cheaper in price, but, DO replace them!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-Ford-IMRC-Bushings-Intake-Manifold-Runner-Control-Retainer-Clips-4-OEM-/231452378684?fits=Make%3AFord

 

For the plastic bushings, Dorman 47099 on the Help rack.