5.0 MPI Intake Manifold

[ceeg52]

While replacing the muffler intake air control (small square squishy cube that looks like sugar cube) it was inadvertently dropped into the throttle body and into the intake manifold. It must have bounced towards the back and I cannot find it and remove. Is this something that I need to absolutely get out by removing the entire intake manifold or is it okay to leave it in there. Trying to avoid spending $700 but will do it if necessary. Thanks for any help.

 

[Bt Doctur]

If its the foamy, rubbery thing that acts as a muffler. you should be fine. Metal or plastic must be removed

Would be interested as to how it got past the throttle plate and then into the intake?

 

[ceeg52]

I'm embarrassed to say I didn't close the throttle plate prior to installing the Muffler IAC. I had surgery on my wrist 4 weeks ago and I'm still wearing a splint. When I turned my wrist awkwardly it just slipped through my fingers and down it went. Just my luck it bounced toward the back of the manifold. The muffler IAC is a stringy fibrous/spongy material. Just hoping it doesn't cause engine problems. See below for picture:

 

[Bt Doctur]

Have seen a lot more things just magically pass thru an engine . Did find a shop rag wedged in an intake valve though

 

[mcomm]

Remove spark plugs, remove TB, shop vac while rotating crank to open different intake valves.

 

[almostseaworthy]

Thanks for all the feedback. Called Merc support and they told me not to worry, it will not do any damage to the engine. Crossing my fingers they are right!