drivers side leaking - replacing with stock manifold. Any tricks or advice getting the manifold off? any gasket better than another?

 

I don't think there is one from the factory....... (gasket)

Drown the bolts in the chemical penetrant you prefer at least 24 hours before you start trying to take them off, hit 'em again before you start on it. (tapping them lightly with a small hammer wouldn't hurt any either, you aren't trying to knock them off with it, just get 'em to vibrate a bit, so the chemicals penetrate further.)

Use a SIX point socket to take them off. 12 point will just round 'em off.

No opinions on gaskets......

 

You may have to cut the collector bolts and install new ones. It faster to just cut em off. They rust and are just a pain to deal with and your knuckles will thank you later. Also use some penetrating lube and give the manifold bolts a good spray. Stay away from cheap paper gaskets. Sorry if I can't be more specific but I'm using my cellphone right now.

 

+1 Heyyou: Soak in PB Blaster 24 hours before.

Also if you need to remove and replace studs get two nuts tighten them both together PB blaster then loosen the bottom nut will make it turn out like a dream. good luck man and only use a gasket if recommended. Otherwise some high temp sealant, i dont think it would hurt. My edelbrock shorty ti-coated headers said USE NO GASKET. So i didnt :P

Tighten em! run the truck, check em again and retighten, Then again. Then a week later. Shouldnt have any leaks then. Remember metal expands and contracts. When you keep tightening after its gone through a couple cycles youll have it down.

 

I assumed this was a bolt running through the manifold to the engine. I now am seeing it is a stud with a nut? any issues with the stud snapping off. My biggest fear with limited space is I will bust a stud etc. and cannot get it out etc. all advice is greatly appreciated.

 

is there any type of gasket that goes on the collector before installation?

 

i just read through the manual - should have done that first. The manual recommends removing the plug and plug wires. Do I really need to do that? The manual also says to not use a gasket- what has been your experience? SHould I gasket or not?

 

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/par.../N-j5lumZ9iy3o

They make them so it is up to you?

 

^i agree. you want to make sure that 6 point socket fits snug even if you have to go down a size and tap it on. i used liquid wrench penetrating oil on the exhaust manifold bolts and i was spaying and tapping on the bolt with a hammer for about a week before i attempted to remove mine. all mine came out without snapping(this was on the 81).