StolenFox

I understand that broken exhaust manifold bolts are common to LS truck engines. Is there anything that can be done (heating the bolt or head) that will help in preventing them from snapping off?

Thanks!
S.F.

99Bluz28

iTrader: (35)

I'd spray them all down really good with some PB Blaster the day before, or at least 8 hours before attempting to loosen them.

GreyFox

This is what I do. Usually the night before.

spawne32

iTrader: (2)

kearny rust cutter...blows pb blaster out of the water

s7ven

Automatic transmission fluid mixed with acetone is the best penetrant I have ever used. Used that with my headers/motor mount change and every bolt came out with ease. Be careful though, it will eat plastic and paint.

Also, like everyone else said, the night before spray all your bolts down. I have also used a propane torch with PB blaster before but I am not sure it actually helped that much.

jimmyblue

iTrader: (11)

One other useful trick is to tighten (just until the bolt
moves) before trying to back it out. I don't know why
it works, but it does.

StolenFox

Thanks for all the tips fellas, got them out with no trouble!

S.F.

02blksscmro

That's great. I hope I'm that lucky.

rennat_2006

iTrader: (10)

Ive never had one break while removing them. Definetely found alot of them broken off from the heating and cooling cycles from running the engine. I take the heat shields off of the truck manifolds and havent had one bust off yet, havent gotten 100k on them like that though to see if that is a long term prevention though.