Pulling engine with no crack in manifold-To header or not (1 Viewer)

[odonekanobe]

I have a '99 LC with 415k miles that runs fantastic but needs some maintenance. PO was a mechanic but did what was only needed when the part failed. When I asked him when the last time the timing belt was done, he responded with "timing belt?".

Guess that is a real testament to these rigs and engines. I have 2 other 2UZ rigs, '04 S/C Tundra with 125k miles and '04 S/C LC with 74k miles and this engine is quieter than either of them.

So I have a bunch of work to get this '99 correct and a bunch of parts piled up. My question is the current exhaust manifolds don't have a leak, and I love how quiet they are. I know the job to replace them while the engine is in the rig is a pain, but what are my chances of doing this job and not cracking the current manifolds? Doug Thorley headers aren't cheap, but should I just bite the bullet and plan on these manifolds not surviving the work I'm about to do?

Appreciate any input.

 

[GTV]

The exhaust manifolds aren’t anywhere near the timing belt so the chances of them surviving are very high. If you’re doing work that requires the engine to be pulled I would seriously consider installing headers even if your manifolds aren’t yet cracked.

 

[odonekanobe]

The exhaust manifolds aren’t anywhere near the timing belt so the chances of them surviving are very high. If you’re doing work that requires the engine to be pulled I would seriously consider installing headers even if your manifolds aren’t yet cracked.

Pulling the engine to do a bunch of work. Timing belt, water pump, fan bracket, starter, alternator, power steering pump, steering rack, front diff, etc.