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.
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!

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!