The vacuum block is back on the car and most of the hoses are on. Today my mightyvac tester arrived. So, hopefully tomorrow I can check the three actuators on the turbo. I'm intrigued by the vacuum actuated motor mounts, I doubt they will hold vacuum but we'll see.

The intake manifold is taking a lengthy bath in purple power as of 5pm today and judging by the consistency of the liquid after running it through twice, I will need at least two more jugs of PP to clean it (which I went to get after dinner). The stuff that came out is super black and viscous.

I think I will reinstall the swirl flaps for now, just not convinced that the motor will be the same if I delete them. I am wondering if I could get some o-rings flexible and thin enough to slip them on the shaft from the outside to provide some additional seal though I know it would not be anywhere near perfect.

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2003 4.4i black ext./black int./black headliner (kid's runabout)
2014 535d X-drive, M package, silver/black interior

Sold but not forgotten:
2009 E70 35d, black ext./black int./black headliner (sold 2021)
2006 4.8iS Le Mans blue/cream int./black headliner, SOLD in 2012 sadly...

Other hardware:
2015 Cayenne S (wife's new DD and definitely wroooommmmm)
2016 Tundra 1794 edition crew cab, luxo hauler
2005 Tundra crew cab, weekend hauler. Sold after 150k very happy miles.