Went to get a inspection a couple of weeks ago and of course because I changed the alternator the computer wasn't ready and it failed.Cost me $27 for them to tell me that.Mistake on my part cause I know it takes about 60 miles to have the computer re-check the system.
Im a mechanic but im between jobs with one in line in a few weeks.
After running 60 miles the check engine light came on.
Scan came back with p1131 (lean) so I figured o2 sensor.
I didn't have the time to go crazy with this problem so I brought it to a shop and asked them to look into it and then do the inspection.In NY they give tickets like breathing in air.
I got a call back from the shop and was told they did a smoke test and the exhaust manifold was leaking real bad.Stated it was even coming out of the oil cap.If I had a torch i would do it myself but since I dont and dont want to take a chance of breaking a bolt I told them to go ahead.
They told me with labor it would be $430.00.
This is the first time in my life I had to bring my car to a shop.
I got this truck cheap($1200) from a private owner so in the long run I think its worth it.Its real clean in and out.
Is that a fair price to replace a exhaust manifold?

97 Ford explorer (6cyl)

 

Seems fair to me. The broken manifold seems consistent with the lean code as well.

 

Exhaust manifold or Intake manifold?

Intake manifold leaks are common on these.. this creates a vacuum leak which can set a lean code.

Exhaust manifold leaks.. less common.. Plus I see no correlation between a leaking exhaust manifold and smoke from the oil filler tube (from the smoke test). However, a leaking manifold CAN bias Oxygen sensor readings (although I've seen many with leaking exhaust manifolds but no codes)....

 

*Update*
Im posting this just so people can learn from my situation.
I went to pick up my truck and was told they also had to change 2 oxygen sensors.So after a $524 bill I get the truck back.
I look at the bill and it stated 2 sensors and the "replace intake manifold GASKET".
Of course I was mad but was glad I got the inspection sticker done with.
I use the truck to visit my sister and guess what?My check engine light comes on.So now im pissed that after $524 my truck is in the same exact state as before.I still have yet to check if a gasket was even replaced.Which I was told on the phone $400 to REPLACE the manifold itself.
So i guess the fight begins.

 

If they replaced the intake manifold gasket the manifold should have been cleaned and inspected during the process. At least that's what I would have done. Is the manifold fractured. If so you would most likely be lean on both banks depending on the location of the break. I thoulght you said it was an exhaust manifold problem not intake. Why the switch? If you had an exhaust leak you should be able to hear it. As far as the 02s are concerned were you given a reason why those were changed if the original problem was an exhaust leak?

 

Am I missing something here? According to my code list P1131 is "lack of upstream O2 switch, sensor indicates lean bank ONE."

For this they replaced both upstream O2 sensors????

Best bet now is to pull the codes again. If it still comes up P1131
check for a vacuum leak or maybe an injector not firing.

 

Yea i made the mistake in saying Exhaust in my original post.
It was the intake they said needed replacement.But ended up replacing just the gasket for 400.00.
Im more mad they didnt call to ask and went ahead and replaced 2 sensors.
Not to mention the fact the light came on again.
When I have time Im gonna check to see if the gasket was even replaced.
They better pray that was at least done.

 

It should be apparent that intake was removed(for gasket replacement) because the mating surfaces will be clean(or at least they should be). All the dirt, debris, tree leaves, etc. should be gone and the entire area should look clean.