I have just joined and have some questions on a 88 f-350 4x4 460 5spd. I have owned the truck for several years and it has been quite reliable. after putting 50000 miles on it, it now shows 181000, I needed to put in a clutch. the truck has had exhaust leaks for some time and I want to give it the love it deserves so thought I would fix leaks and desmog at the same time. While removing the tranny I found that the tube on the left manifold was in the way of the bell, I was able to get the tranny out but it will never go back in past the tube. I read an old post from oldproudvet who said most of the junk could be removed, hopefully he will read this and give me some tips. can I cut these tubes and seal the ends? Im trying to avoid pulling the engine to cure the leaks but there are broken manifold bolts and the donuts are shot I dont think I can get them drilled out while still in vehicle. Maybe I should pull the engine, drill the bolts out, install shorty headers that I have and get 3 in exhaust run.