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Tough time pulling apart exhaust flange at header

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1.3K views 3 replies 3 participants last post by  TeKurtz  
#1 ·
I'm trying to separate the factory exhaust manifold from the cats to replace the o-ring gaskets. All the hex bolts came off no problem, but there are 2 splined bolts still attached to the manifold side.

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The nuts came off fine, should these bolts be pounded back out or let them stay?

I've removed the exhaust brackets attached to the gearbox thinking this would give me enough room to swing the exhaust down enough to get the o-rings in but I haven't gotten anything to separate. I'm hesitant to pry too hard, not to mention it's only up on jack stands and there isn't much room for leverage.

Is there something I'm missing or should I just get a BFH or pry bar?

Thanks!
 
#2 ·
No, don't touch those bolts. They're act as studs and help you align the exhaust back onto the manifold flanges.

Are you trying to replace the donuts without dropping the exhaust? I don't think you'll be able to. At least not by lowering it significantly.

If the problem is that the exhaust won't separate; then put some of the nut back on with a threads and whack it a few times with a mallet. If it breaks free, the nuts will catch it if it falls.