Rusty Exhaust Manifold Removal

[1Redford]

Can anyone tell me if there is an specific process of removing the exhaust manifold's from my 2004 cruiser? Before any responses keep this in mind. I've replaced most of my suspension including shocks, springs, torsion bars, swaybar links, UCA's, rear upper and lower CA's and most every bushing. Almost every bolt has snapped because they're welded in place by rust. My cruiser now has a ticking noise, drivers side, and its obvious that its the manifold or the gasket. I'm scared to even attempt the removal. Is there some sort of process that can be done to make this any easier? I live in Dallas and any ideas or shop help, i'll pay, would be grateful.

 

[nissanh]

Soak those studs with WD40 2-3 times a day and do it for few days WITHOUT running the engine. Don't use impact gun as those can break the studs easily. At the time of the removal heating each stud and surrounding area (Aluminum head) is surely going to help. IF you can get the stud out with the bolt, you got nothing to worry.See some videos done by South Main Auto. He shows how to deal with rusted manifold studs/nuts.

Disconnect the battery and make room for the project. I did the same repair 2-3 years ago for the first time I was careful in each step and took 7-8 hours from beginning to the end. You have to disconnect the steering link at the top to get some access (don't turn the wheels or steering wheel during the R&R of the manifold).

 

[1Redford]

Soak those studs with WD40 2-3 times a day and do it for few days WITHOUT running the engine. Don't use impact gun as those can break the studs easily. At the time of the removal heating each stud and surrounding area (Aluminum head) is surely going to help. IF you can get the stud out with the bolt, you got nothing to worry.See some videos done by South Main Auto. He shows how to deal with rusted manifold studs/nuts.

Disconnect the battery and make room for the project. I did the same repair 2-3 years ago for the first time I was careful in each step and took 7-8 hours from beginning to the end. You have to disconnect the steering link at the top to get some access (don't turn the wheels or steering wheel during the R&R of the manifold).

I really appreciate the advice. Thanks so much. I'll follow your directions to the T. Will also post before and after pics.

 

[taterhead47]

Have you attempted this project yet? Got a quote from a shop, but I can't afford it.

I really appreciate the advice. Thanks so much. I'll follow your directions to the T. Will also post before and after pics.

 

[katit]

Also, it really helps to unbolt engine mount and lift engine by inch or so

 

[Red Beard]

Have you attempted this project yet? Got a quote from a shop, but I can't afford it.

What was the quote? Curious what a manifold replacement job is.

I’m in the same boat with the ticking noise from an exhaust leak. I’m planning on doing it next for summer. I’ll likely have my windows up for the next few months as it starts to get cold

 

[taterhead47]

Between 1500 and 2000.

 

[94SRUNNER]

Between 1500 and 2000.

That is just labor, correct?

 

[taterhead47]

That is just labor, correct?

No, parts and 8 or so hours of labor.

 

[1Redford]

Have you attempted this project yet? Got a quote from a shop, but I can't afford it.

I have not started this yet. Primarily out of fear. most of the suspension work that i did required cutting bolts or they just twisted off. I have a bad feeling of breaking one or more of the exhaust manifold bolts.

 

[1Redford]

What was the quote? Curious what a manifold replacement job is.

I’m in the same boat with the ticking noise from an exhaust leak. I’m planning on doing it next for summer. I’ll likely have my windows up for the next few months as it starts to get cold

I have followed one particular Toyota mechanic around for the past 15 years, he's that good folks. He said that he could'nt quote me a price. Said that the cost would be the total of hours that it took, plus parts. That he would have to raise the engine up, and that the bolts would probably break regardless.

 

[1Redford]

No, parts and 8 or so hours of labor.

For both sides?

 

[taterhead47]

For both sides?

No, sorry. I can see how I confused you...just one side.