left exhaust manifold to pipe bolts

[WhiteRodeo4x4]

Is there an easy solution to getting these three bolts off?? They are 17mm and it appears that they are in a very tight area. Should they be soaked before removal attempt or heated with a torch.....any and all comments will be welcome....Thanks 2001 V-6 Rodeo 4x4

[DeltaP]

Soak first. If no joy then light heat. Remember...aluminum head.

[WhiteRodeo4x4]

Hummmmm maybe cut the pipe off and remove the manifold to get the bolts off would be a better idea?? Does the manifold come off easy ??

[WhiteRodeo4x4]

OK so I decided to replace the pipe today and it was a relativly easy job .......except for the flange to exhaust minifold. The three nuts came off wit ease and dropped the flange easy. Took the pipe off and noticed that the new flange had the holes closer together than the old one. The pipe was still a 2" OD pipe but the flange just would not line up correctly. So I took a hack saw and cut straight down the three holes for the diameter of the bolt hole and made a notch . Replaced the "O" ring and the other style gasket too.Well to cut to the chase it all worked out and I also used a 2"ID 5" section of pipe coated inside with exhaust pipe compound to cover the seam where I cut the pipe on the 1st attempt. I just put the sleeve over the two pipes and used 2" "U" clamps to secure it. Was alot easier than droping the X member and suspension to get the pipe in. I am happy with the job and it seem like it is as solid as it can be.