How to Install an Exhaust Manifold

An engine's exhaust manifold routes exhaust gases from the engine to the vehicle's exhaust system. Without the exhaust manifold, hazardous exhaust fumes can reach the interior of the vehicle. Installation of the exhaust manifold is usually the final step of the engine installation process, but installation is also necessary when an exhaust manifold gasket is replaced. Thankfully, installing an exhaust manifold is a straightforward process.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Gasket scraper
• Torque wrench
• Vehicle specification manual

1. Ensure that the exhaust manifold's mating surface is free from old gasket deposits to begin the installation process. Old exhaust manifold gaskets rarely leave gasket deposits, but if any deposits are present they should be scraped away with a gasket scrapper.

2. Place a new exhaust manifold gasket over the manifold's mating surface. Do not apply gasket sealer to this gasket.

3. Position the exhaust manifold with its gasket against the portion of the head where the manifold attaches, then place one exhaust manifold bolt through one end of the manifold and into the head. Turn this bolt only until it begins to grasp the threads within the head.

4. Insert another manifold bolt into the opposite side of the exhaust manifold and turn this bolt only until it begins to grasp the threads within the head.

5. Insert the remaining exhaust manifold bolts through the manifold and into the head.

6. Tighten each exhaust manifold bolt to the required torque specifications with a torque wrench to complete the installation. Refer to the vehicle's specifications manual for this torque setting.

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