Is it worth it to have a shop pull the manifolds and put gaskets on, or should I do it. I'm pretty handy, and ages ago I used to work on my cars all the time (15-20 years ago!), but I don't anymore, and I'm not sure I want to deal with busted studs. What do you tjink? Have you done it yourself? Engine is pretty clean, not much rust considering age.

 

Oh, and it's the 5.8L, with 150K miles on it.

 

It's a pretty easy job, if everything comes apart like it's supposed to. I soaked all the manifold and flange bolts with penetrating oil for a few days before I tore into it. I took off the tire and inner fender, makes getting to the manifold a breeze. I had a stud break but drilled it out and extracted it fairly easily. All the other studs came out easily. The engine was warm when I started the job, seemed to make it easier.

 

I've been collecting parts to do mine, and I am also investing in an Oxy Acetylene setup. Already bought a nice Victor torch set, now I just need tanks. Its not a cheap investment, but will pay for itself on the manifold alone. Not to mention any other rusty bolts I will ever need to take care of in the future.

 

Are you sure it's a manifold leak? They usually don't leak unless they are cracked, but you could also have a rusted or broken air injection tube or check valve at the back of the motor which will sound just like a manifold leak.

 

I'm really not sure it's the manifold, but I'like take a look at the others. Maybe that will save me some trouble.

It sounds like if I don't find any other leaks, the project should be pretty manageable if I open it up by removing the wheel. I don't have an acetylene torch, but I wonder if map gas would get hot enough to help?