5.7 Exhaust Manifold Bolts

[440sixpack]

My '77 K10 has a low mileage all original 350 TBI out of a '92 K20 in it. why the PO didn't paint the engine blue before he installed it I have no idea.

I really want to remove the exhaust manifolds and paint everything correctly to look as original as possible. what are the chances of breaking the manifold bolts removing them for the first time in 30 years ? is this a common problem on these engines ? I really don't want to create a big mess over something so trivial but if it's pretty safe I would do it.

 

[waterpirate]

Exhaust manifold bolts are famous for snapping off. I would not fool with them unless you are prepared to pull the heads, or easy out if able to access the broken one.
YMMV
Eric

 

[440sixpack]

I was afraid of that. it runs perfect and doesn't leak a drop of anything I'm not really into a big project over an engine paint job.

I'll probably either do the best I can with them in place or just forget it altogether.

 

[WFO]

Sounds like a good excuse for headers.

 

[Ian 1977]

If the 9/16 socket fits nicely, you have a pretty good chance. If you can get a 1/2 socket onto those bolts, they are rusted bad, and you better be prepared for broken bolts.

 

[Ian 1977]

Blue paint will burn off the exhaust manifolds . Just sayin’

 

[Ian 1977]

You must be registered for see images attach

 

[Ian 1977]

Broke a bolt removing that one.

 

[potent rodent]

i would leave it be. u know what they say if it aint broke dont ***** with it

 

[Octane]

I've removed them when the engine was hot without a problem.I had good bolt heads tho.