So I had to replace my passenger side exhaust manifold due to a crack in the manifold. I had put this off for about two years because I was afraid that something would go horribly wrong with stuck/rusted hardware. After doing some research, I was surprised that the best penetrating fluid to use is a 50/50 homebrew of ATF and acetone. I soaked all hardware for a few hours and all hardware came out with no issue what so ever. Best stuff I have ever used.

 

Nice... Putting doing mine off now 08 with 70K miles.

 

I'm going to try in do this is June. Did you use new bolts? (you never know)

 

Airframe, is yours 4wd? I have been putting mine off for about 2 years now. 06 FX4, I dont see how its humanly possible without pulling the engine.

 

You don't need to remove the engine but, you do need to raise the passenger side a few inches. Remove the motor mount and jack it up a few inches to access the manifold nuts and studs...you may also want to remove the starter. Google it for some good videos on how to..

 

Exactly, I raised my engine a few inches and all was well. Replaced all studs and nuts with stainless steel. ( Both sides... )

 

you would be stupid if you did not replace the studs and nuts with stainless steel .. putting the old ones back in and trying to torque them would result in broken studs that would require extraction.

 

No doubt, mine has a broken stud and I havent touched it yet. Broke on its own

 

lmk if you want an extra hand

 

thanks Bro