My dad and I are having a heck of a time trying to reinstall the combination manifold on his '85 F-150.

We've got the chiltion's guide, but it's dang near useless and only lists what other parts you need to remove in what order.

The biggest headache we're having is trying to get the mounting bolts for the manifold to line up straight. No matter which bolt we start first, there's always 1 or 2 that end up being just 1/4" from going in straight.

Part of the problem might be that we don't have (and can't find at the store) the 3 studs that apparently hold the manifold in place while you get all the other bolts started. We're using the standard mounting bolts in their place.

So, does anybody know any tips or tricks to get this beastie back together? I'd really appreciate it.

 

Get some studs. They're really the only way to do it in the vehicle.

 

Your manifolds are apparently warped; pretty badly by the sound of it. I'd either get out some prybars, a die grinder, or start shopping for replacements.