I have a 1997 Ford V10 with corroded exhaust manifold studs (and maybe will have spark plug issues as well) in a Four Winds RV that is in great shape otherwise.
Scratch the diesel turned oil burner idea. A Ford technician from Arizona called me back about the questions I had with regards to exhaust manifold studs and spark plugs. He said Ford has a stainless steel kit for the exhaust manifold studs, and mentioned Timesert inserts for the spark plug fix. He suggested loosening the plugs a 1/4 turn, and then spraying carb cleaner around the threads to loosen things up a bit.
When I mentioned the diesel conversion, he didn't laugh at me, which I appreciated, and matter-of-factly pointed out all the changes that would be necessary for a diesel engine to operate (which I have never worked on, nor apparently understood). That's all I have to say about that idea...
I got a quote today for just the exhaust manifold stud replacement which was $1800 - $2400 worst case. When I mentioned replacing with stainless steel studs, the guy downplayed the necessity of doing so which concerned me given the condition mine are in now. It may be overkill, but why not if you've got the thing apart?
I've watched videos of guys using a Mig welder to add metal to the broken stud(s) until there was enough to grab the end with vice-grips and turn out; that is assuming there's enough room to do that without pulling the engine, and there might be after removing the wheels and part of the wheel well?
Please weigh in with any advice or tips. Thanks.

 

You might get more responses if posted here. https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/forum49/

Replacing those manifold studs is not for the light hearted.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...l#post13033699

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...l#post13037361