'73 F100 360 Exhaust Manifold Gasket Replacement -
 

So, I notice today that the Exhaust Manifold Gaskets need to be replaced. $10 part. 3 or four leaks when cold. Doh !!!!

Any suggestions? I plan on soaking the bolt with liquid wrench, unbolt with air impact. I sure hope I don't bust a bolt. I'm going to support each side with a jack and block of wood from underneath as I slip a new gasket in there.

Do you think this process will work or will I have to disconnect the head pipes to change out the gaskets? If I do that will I have to then replace those .... looks like metal gaskets on the head pipes?

How much time do you guys think this will all take?

Thanks in advance.... AJ

I wouldn't use the impact, just a 6-pt box end or socket. That way you'll have a better feel for what's happening and may save breaking a bolt. It would probably be best to take the manifold out completely so you can properly clean the mating surfaces.

Go ask this question in the FE forum. The upper row of bolts it famous for becoming one with the head flange. There are several ideas on how to deal with it. Soak it with penetrating oil every day for a week or two after running the truck (while the parts are warm). Do a search on the candle trick on this board.

The upper row of bolts are so bad about seizing that some people just drill them out and replace them with a bolt and nut.

You shouldn't need to support the pipes... they'll stay in place... try PB Blaster (yellow can) its about the best stuff out there for unsticking bolts.

Don't use paper gaskets to replace yours... get some good Fel-Pro corrugated metal, Copper or Aluminum gaskets. The Fel-Pros are the cheapest, but they are pretty good.

When you put it back together, use some anti-seize lubricant on the threads.

I know of someone who has built hundreds of FE engines, and his technique is to run the engine until hot, then crack the bolts loose. He reports that he hardly ever has had a bolt break this way.