96LT1Z

Just looking for some tips, and tricks to removing the stock manifolds and installing pacesetter race style longtubes, thanks!

LsoneGT

iTrader: (2)

I always no matter what car, smack the manifold bolts with some pb blaster and let it soak. When I put them on my old LT1 I removed the motor mount bolts one at a time and took a jack and twisted the motor. went in like a glove, I also throw some locktite on my new header bolts. After the car gets hot then cools check the bolts again.

SS RRR

iTrader: (2)

All kinds of write ups on this very subject. If they are coated I would suggest getting a couple of self-wrapping bandages to wrap around the primaries when installing. Will keep the finish from getting banged up.

HellTeeOne

Get the 12-point 5/16 header bolts, preferably in stainless. A bit easier to install.

FormulaJoe

iTrader: (5)

Definitely get the bolts like hellteeone is talking about, just got a set for my car after messing with an assortment of bolts for the last couple of years since I've had my LTs that were a pain to get on and off. The 12pt. 5/16ths bolts are SOO much easier.

96z28_lt1

iTrader: (3)

haha i remember loosening my k member ever so slightly, since i couldn't get the second cat off the manifold. All the bolts off my neighbor pulled from underneath and i hammered the crap out of it. Also removing the steering shaft makes things so much easier!

WhistlingZ

Loosening or removing the steering shaft makes it alot easier. If you're doing the headers, do the plugs while you have them out.

Tolley's94z28

iTrader: (4)

If you know anybody with a lift, that really helps as well. Last time I did it I had to raise the car pretty high off the ground. Another set of hands is good too!

Tom94TA

I would recommend 6 point bolts, with a 6 point if you are unable to get a box wrench on it at least you can use a open end wrench. When using 12 point bolts you can only use a box wrench.
ARP makes some nice stainless bolts, look at p/n 400-1111

lt16spd1

When I did mine, the alternator had to come out to go through the top, the oil pressure sensor had to come out, and I loosened the motor mounts to rock the engine a bit. It wasnt incredibly hard but just took forever. The hardest part was screwing the oil pressure sensor back in, took over an hour. It was acting like the threads were stripped no matter how much I kept cleaning them up.

lt16spd1

+1, get the front end as high off the ground as possible. I had to use a couple blocks of wood on the jack to lift it up to the jacks stands.

SS RRR

iTrader: (2)

There is no such thing as a 12-point socket?

speed_demon24

iTrader: (6)

Not to mention being able to put on the wrench at 30 degree intervals instead of 60 makes it that much easier.

Tom94TA

I don't know about your headers but I have at least one bolt on each side that is obstructed by the primary tube.
Choosing the right fastener to use is like choosing the right tool to make your life easier. 6 point vs 12 point it's not a big deal.