Replacing an exhaust manifold is a fair amount of work, but it is not necessarily a difficult process, just an involved one. If you are already well-versed in DIY repair and maintenance, it’s a simple matter of learning the new process and relying on some familiar tools. That means it can also be a great way to build skills if you are fairly new to doing your own automotive work.
Exhaust Manifold
Full replacement and gasket replacement for your manifold both follow the same basic process. The biggest difference is that when you only replace the gasket, you reinstall the old manifold. It is also worth noting that if you replace OEM parts with performance alternatives like weld up header kits, you will need to follow the additional fitment instructions for those parts. The basic procedure for manifold replacement assumes you are using something that fits the same dimensions as an OEM part even if it is an aftermarket upgrade.
Removal and Replacement
Start by inspecting the old manifold if you suspect it has been damaged. If you are replacing it to upgrade it, then go ahead and skip this step. If you do not find cracks or other signs the manifold has been compromised, you might only need a gasket replacement. It could also indicate that the cause of your issue is further down the pipeline, literally.
To remove the manifold, start by taking out the bolts that attach it to the exhaust pipe or the catalytic converter, depending on your vehicle’s make and model. After that, you need to remove the bolts that attach the manifold to the cylinder head. You should be able to pull out the exhaust manifold after that.
This exposes the manifold gasket, which you can take off and dispose of. Your new manifold should come with a new gasket, otherwise you need to order one before starting the job. Once the gasket is removed, you can scrape any residue off the cylinder head, examine the exhaust studs, and clean excess carbon out of the area.
The rest is just replacing parts. Set the new gasket in place on the clean cylinder head, place the new manifold, or replace the old one if you are only doing gasket work, and then bolt it back together. The entire process is fairly straightforward even if it does require a little patience sometimes because you encounter stubborn bolts.
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Get the Tools You Need To Equip a Home Garage
While it is true that there are a lot of jobs that require one specialized tool or another, you can take care of most of your regular auto maintenance and many repairs with a set of basic tools. Automotive shop tools for beginners include staples like a robust socket set with both metric and standard sizes, a floor jack, and jack stands. If you are unsure where to start, check out options for basic mechanic’s toolkits and then invest in one or two new tools as you need them to take on bigger jobs while you learn. Everyone has to start somewhere, so get started today.