1991 2.3 l. Thought I had an exhaust manifold Leak. Replaced gasket. New gasket didn't help. Removed gasket and mounted manifold to engine metal to metal, still and noise. Installed New manifold with gasket. Still same noise. Am thinking noise not coming from manifold. Torqued all bolts to spec. Anybody have any idea? Could it be lifters .

 

Welcome to FTE.
Describe, or post up a video of the area, with the sound its making & maybe someone will have an idea whats going on with your engine.

 

Check the EGR line.. it's connected to the exhaust at the back of the motor.

 

Have video but don't know how to post video on here

 

EgR line is intact and installed properly.

 

You could use a host like Photobucket, then post the link to it here.

 

I took exhaust manifold off for the fifth time. Cleaned all surfaces good. Using two new gaskets I 're-installed the manifold, tightened all bolts in sequence to specified torque. Started engine and still have the leak. I can feel the exhaust leak right below the front most bolt. Is it possible that the head has a crack in that area ? I am not a mechanic but like to do my own work but this has me stumped.

 

I am a real big fan of finding noises with the hose method. Grab a piece of hose 3/8 or whatever, one end to your ear and the other start sticking places the you think the sound is coming from. The hose isolates the noise so you can figure where its coming from.

 

Ok, I have come to the conclusion that I have a break in my head gasket. Before I jump in and try to replace it myself, it has been suggested by non-mechanic friend that I try an additive that is on the market that claims to repair blown head gaskets. Would that be advisable ?

 

to be honest, if you really do have a blown head gasket thats making enough noise to make you think its a busted header pipe it will never work. Even in situations that it does work, its not a permanent fix. Its a band aid to get you by for a few miles til you can get it fixed right.