This may sound stupid but can the intake manifold have a casting date after the engine assembly date????

 

It would be too warm.

 

Not if it's supposed to be original to that particular engine assembly.

 

Only on a certain Delorean.

 

I think you know the answer to that question.

 

Possibly. If the engine was assembled at the engine plant, an inspection revealed something wrong with the intake and the engine was sent to a repair bay for a few days and then shipped to the car assembly plant.