I have a 2000 F-150 5.4. with 125,000 kms. The passenger side exhaust manifold is leaking by the gasket. One mechanic said it is warped and will have to be planed and the bolts will have to be drilled out. Another mechanic said I need a new manifold because the old manifold will not match up. Has anyone had this problem and if the manifold is warped why does this happen especially with the vehicle being fairly new? Are there any secret warranties regarding this? Thank you
Are all manifolds the same? i.e. stock or aftermarket?

 

Can you tell where the leak is coming from? I just had an exhaust installed and when I got it back it was leaking from where the manifold meets the cat section. I guess they moved it around or something and it started leaking, but they just tightened it and now it’s fine. So make sure that the leak isn’t coming from that connection, because I think that connection is just a crush gasket so it can easily be disturbed.

 

Thanks Greg for replying. The leak is where the manifold bolts onto the motor. The gasket has broken and a piece has come out. As you can tell I'm not very mechanical and I'm just going by what the mechanic pointed out to me. Pete

 

edit

 

Thanks Max. I'm not sure if I want replace the one manifold or go with a pair of new headers. What is the likelyhood of the other manifold going the same way? Do headers do anything to increase fuel economy? What are the best headers to buy? Both mechanics wanted in the neighbourhood of $400.00 Canadian to fix the one side. Do headers just connect to the existing exhaust pipe or are there other exhaust components to replace? Thanks Pete

 

edit

 

Longbay - if you end up needing a replacement manifold, I installed headers on my truck...you can have my manifold/s for real cheap (shipping).

My truck is a 2001... I'm assuming they're the same (may want to get a look at the OE numbers stamped on the part to make sure).

let me know if you want it/them.

 

rball Thanks for the offer for the manifolds. I talked to mechanic today and he said all I probably need is a new gasket. I'm taking it in next week and I will let you know.

Max Sorry you took you reply's off. Like I said I'm new at this. No harm meant.