Didn't think I was going to say this but the seal was indeed all it was. It now starts from cold in the morning without any fuss and runs smoothly. Can't remember if it was ever replaced before, I know the one on the back for the CCV valve was replaced. By the state of it and the fact that the six bolts holding the flange were tighter than expected I'm inclined to say it was the original seal.

Ran out of time on this occasion but next time it is in my garage with the beauty cover off I am going to smoke test it again to make sure none of the vac line leak. Pretty sure they are tight but it is like a waterbed, fix one problem, find another... :-) For now all is well, next week 1000 miles R/T to Toronto.


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Attached Images

 

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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.