Hello. I am new to this forum. I have been browsing some threads and have been impressed with the overall knowledge and the quality of responce that I have seen. I have a 98 Ford F150 Xlt 4x4 with a 4.6. I haven't owned it long but I love it. First Ford truck. Don't know why it took me so long. Anyway the starter failed and I had to replace it. That was a chore. In removing the inner fender to gain access I found the exhaust manifold is really rusty and the heads of the bolts/nuts that bolt them up to the head are missing alot of meat. I am concerned that removing the bolts in the future might strip out the aluminum heads. Anybody have any expierence with problems or am I just to concerned. Sorry so long I just got carried away. Thanxs in advance.

 

Welcome ! That sounds typical. If they're performing well and no exhaust leaks are present, it's probably best to leave them be and avoid a premature headache. Whether it's now, the future, or never, removing them might snap a few.