Ok, finally got my engine rebuilt. Got it started but had major exhaust leaks. I can't get the passenger side manifold bolt to tighten down, where the counter weight heat riser goes, because the bolt is so dang old it breaks off the threads when I tighten it down. I'm hesitant to try to drill out the stud because the manifold is cast iron. Thought I would run with out the heat riser, which I had taken apart and was just using it as a spacer, but the crossover pipe is too out of alignment and I still can't tighten the nut down onto the stud. So I think to the point where I need to pull that manifold off and try to replace the stud. Any pointers? I need some reassurance from you guys!

 

 

Mike there is a thread right now where the poster is asking about headers for his Yblock. If you need to perhaps you can buy his manifolds.

 

That's a great trick, I'll give it a try - Thanks! I wish I had posted before I welded the crossover pipes together. I had an exhaust leak coming from the pipes where they slip together so I welded them.

 

Good to know. I'll Try the candle trick first. However, I may need to pickup a new crossover pipe; because I had an exhaust leak where the pipes slip into each other I welded them together.

 

BJ is correct about the cross over pipe sections not secured from the factory. But my 54 has had a clamp on them ever since I bought it in 1977 and have had no problems. My 55 cross over pipes were welded together when I bought it in April of 2016.

 

Well, I tried the candle trick, but did not work. That stud is stuck in there like a German Virgin! I guess I'll go ahead and remove that manifold and take it to a muffler shop and see if they can get it out and replace the stud. The stud is completely "proud" I haven't broken it yet - LOL.

As for the crossover pipe, if need be I can cut down to where the other pipe slips in and then just grind my weld off. I like the idea of using a clamp. Before I had some muffler tape wrapped around it but it looked real ugly.

 

Try welding a nut to what is left of the stud , the heat from welding will usually help loosen a frozen stud .

 

I think your best bet is to install dual exhaust Rams Horn manifolds and 2" straight pipes out to the rear bumper. Thank me later.

 

Kevin Mummert sells new ones for $349. His webpage is FORD Y