So, I spent about 5 hours today working on my header install (including a store run or two and a lunch break). I managed to get the head shields off, and I believe 10 out of the 16 manifold nuts loose.
I managed to get this far without jacking the engine up (mainly because I forgot that was an actual step). Coincidentally, I've been having a hell of a time accessing some of the nuts that are on the bottom side of the manifold.
My main weapon of choice has been a 14mm flex head ratcheting wrench, which I saw recommended in another header thread, and it's been a huge asset. In fact, all that I've used so far has been wrenches. I haven't really been able to get a socket anywhere near the bolts. Does anyone have any other suggestions that may help me to break those last few bolts loose? Also, I'll try jacking the engine up tomorrow when I continue but, does it really provide that much of an advantage? Does it give you better clearance/angles, or what?
I've been hitting the nuts with PB Blaster and doing hot/cold cycles here and there trying to loosen things up, but I just can't quite get torque on some of those bolts. On a couple, I can't even get the box end of the wrench to seat flush because of the manifold itself, so there's that too.
It's obviously not impossible since many people before me have done it. Tomorrow is supposed to be a cold one, and snow is expected on sunday, so hopefully I can knock it out before I go hypothermic. Looking forward to any info/tips/suggestions!
I managed to get this far without jacking the engine up (mainly because I forgot that was an actual step). Coincidentally, I've been having a hell of a time accessing some of the nuts that are on the bottom side of the manifold.
My main weapon of choice has been a 14mm flex head ratcheting wrench, which I saw recommended in another header thread, and it's been a huge asset. In fact, all that I've used so far has been wrenches. I haven't really been able to get a socket anywhere near the bolts. Does anyone have any other suggestions that may help me to break those last few bolts loose? Also, I'll try jacking the engine up tomorrow when I continue but, does it really provide that much of an advantage? Does it give you better clearance/angles, or what?
I've been hitting the nuts with PB Blaster and doing hot/cold cycles here and there trying to loosen things up, but I just can't quite get torque on some of those bolts. On a couple, I can't even get the box end of the wrench to seat flush because of the manifold itself, so there's that too.
It's obviously not impossible since many people before me have done it. Tomorrow is supposed to be a cold one, and snow is expected on sunday, so hopefully I can knock it out before I go hypothermic. Looking forward to any info/tips/suggestions!