Hey guys, recently I was put to the task of removing a passenger side exhaust manifold on my brother's 1998 f150 4.6. I figured I'd give it a try since I replaced both sides on my own 1996 f250 5.8. I'm not worried about any rusted bolts or getting them out right now because I've done it before I'll deal with it again if I have to. My biggest problem I have right now is removing/accessing the lower bolts on the manifold. It seems that everything is placed so tight and in the way, particularly the motor mount, starter, and AC unit. I'm lost trying to figure out how to get any socket/grinder down there. Any advice as to what i should do to access them? Is it necessary to lift the motor out or up a few inches? Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

Are you going in through the fender well? That's mandatory.

 

yes.

 

The 4.6 manifolds sit about 1" lower than the 5.4 because of the difference in block height. This puts the lower half of the manifold behind the frame. I never replaced my manifolds in place, but there is no way you can access the studs without pulling the engine mount bolts and Jack up the engine.
From experience I can tell you cutting off the studs is the way to go. After wrapping on the ends of the studs repeatedly with a hammer, I used vice grips and got every one out without issue. The rear passenger side was a little more difficult because of more corrosion.
Good luck

 

Ok thanks. To do that I would I lift it besides unbolting the mounts and stuff? The trans bolts seem to be very tight on the top and impossible to get to. Would I unbolt in from the transfer case to give me enough slack to pick it up a few inches?