I'd say that's an EGR port !*FAIL*! wouldn't you? Lol

 

Yeah do some searching, It's a common problem with our trucks. I've seen some look even worse then that!

 

No way! Really??

 

Yes, I've seen pics of them plugged solid!

 

I pulled my TB elbow a few years ago and the same thing-hard black carbon in the ports. Gonna be pulling the whole upper intake later this week to replace the intake manifold gaskets due to a coolant seep around the thermostat housing. that reminds me, i should replace the thermostat while i'm in there. Think I will try and clean the injectors too.