how do I get down pipe bolts out?

[johnlivingston]

I'm trying to pull the 3.1L from my 95 Century. I'm currently stuck at disconnecting the two bolts from the downpipe to the manifold. It seems the only way I'll get enough leverage is from underneath the car, but even there access is pathetic. I haven't even figured out for sure what size socket to use yet.

Any tips? Should I just take a Sawzall to the pipe and replace the catalytic converter when the time comes? Seems overkill.

John

[GTP Dad]

You may be better off to remove the rear manifold from the head and then remove the engine. Once the crossover pipe is removed and the exhaust manifold is removed you should be able to move it out of the way and lift the engine. If not the sawsall may be your only choice but that can be expensive.

[johnlivingston]

Thanks. My original goal was just to pull the heads for new head gaskets, but getting just the heat shield off the firewall side seemed more than my 60 year old back could hack (the one shield bolt I had easy access too didn't not seem to want to turn, unlike the radiator-side ones, which came out very easily). Started looking simpler just to yank the whole thing, particularly as the engine is very oily and I'm thinking I should probably at least replace the front seal. I may go ahead and remove the hood, climb back up there and see if I can separate the manifold, as you suggest.

I'm beginning to really appreciate four cylinder engines!

John

[johnlivingston]

I forgot to mention that, befgore GTP Dad's reply, I was thinking about supporting the engine with my hoist, then removing the sway bar and engine cradle to get better access. If I can't separate the manifold, I'll go back to trying that.

John