I must soon replace the Head Gaskets in my 98 Expy. 4.6Ltr unit. While I was searching the boards for head gasket replacement ideas I had a thought. The final head removal is the worst part of the job, and getting to the manifold bolts can be difficult.
Has any body here had removed the heads successfully by leaving the exhaust manifolds on the heads, and chopping the exhaust pipe(s) after the O2 Sensors or Upper CAT's?.
It seems that both heads can be removed vertically after the Head Bolts are removed, and the heads lifted out with the Manifolds attached. This would seem to eliminate replacement of several gaskets, and may make it easier to service the Exhaust system. This prior to re-assembly where the pipes can be welded or re-clamped.
I am trying to bypass that $1-3,000.00 replacement at all cost.
Peace.

 

i've never done a head gasket to a 4.6 or 5.4. but i would think you could get it off with the exhaust manifold attached. but why would you need to cut the exhaust up? all you need to do is take the nuts off the manifold flange and that will drop the pipes.

 

Shoot, if your gonna cut the pipes, just pull the motor, you be glad you did. That's the ideal way to do it.

 

Thanks for the reply guys!. I was looking at a procedure for the teardown of the 4.6Ltr while still in the engine bay. I did get the job done without cutting the exhaust. That 4.6Ltr is a monster getting those gaskets out, and re-torquing all those bolts.

 

Yea, that's why the Ford procedure calls for an engine pull. It's much easier if you have the tools/equipment.

And one guy that I know of, did his gaskets w/engine in bay, but bolted down Long Tube headers to the heads first lol - Fun!