my 04 f150 5.4 IMRC is shot and needs to be replaced. I looked up how to replace it and it seems I will have to drain coolant and remove the intake to do it. Those steps are just for gaining access to the IMRC. This will take a significant amount of time that I don’t have so I checked with some mechanics and it will cost 700$-900$ in labor if I pay someone to do it for me. The valve is on the outside of the engine and I just can’t believe that it’s absolutely necessary to remove the intake. Have any of you replaced an IMRC with the intake in place? I’ve searched YouTube real hard to find a video but they all remove the intake. It’s a $100 external part that requires you to drain coolant and remove the intake. This is insane.

 

Chatgpc and Gemini say NO. Grok says NO too, except for this thread: https://www.f150forum.com/f4/2005-f1...-clips-541881/

 

yeah I’ve had long conversations with AI about it. That thread you linked just talks about reattaching the link rod which could be my problem. I only have a code for the drivers side being stuck open. Thanks for the link.