exhaust manifold studs

What is the best way without taking off exhaust manifold to get out the 3 studs that hold the exhaust pipe to the manifold. Of cousre I have let set with panther piss for a few days. Thanks |

If they are really rusted in there, carefully use a torch. Stop by a local hardware store and pick up a fabric like heat sheild that plumbers use when they solder copper pipes in tight areas. Heat the area around where each stud goes into the manifold until glowing orange. (Do one at a time.) Gently try to turn them out. It may take a few times of reheating each one to get them to budge. If the stud starts to bind while coming out, stop turning and reheat.
It would be much safer and easier with the manifolds out.
Good luck, Sarge

I agree, use a torch and go slow. In my experience also, you have to get it glowing before those studs will turn loose. Would be a lot better to take it off. It wouldn't take that long to take it off, probably save time in the long run by not having to do this job upsidedown in limited space. Good luck.

|UPDATED|8/14/2003 7:11:15 AM|/UPDATED|

Hey GOOD news. I used some stuff called RustBuster. It comes in a small telescoping bottle and is clear, looks just like water. I have used it before. I picked some up at Johstone Supply (Heating and A/c Wholesaler). Squirted some on and left set and came back 3 hours later put on some more. I ended up using a 14mm deep well socket gave it a few good taps and turned rachet to tighten nut. Nut did move a little then proceded to turn nut off. Man I got lucky all 3 came off the same way. Thanks for the feed back Greatly Appreciated!

If you were only trying to remove the nuts, you are all set. Buy the brass replacement nuts and never worry again. Joe

I recently did some exhaust work on my '93 bowtie pickup which required removing the exhaust manifolds. I managed to snap all 6 studs that join the manifolds to the exhaust pipes, even after multiple hoseings/soakings with penetrating oil. I don't own a torch so took both manifolds to a local exhaust shop and they got the broken leftovers out slick as a whistle for $10 (cheapest part of the whole job!).

Sounds like they have it covered, oxy/acet torch, should only take 15 to 30 seconds to heat the ears up around the studs, they will come right out. The brass nuts are also very nice when installing the nesw parts and they cost very little more.

Dave
Mr69vett