Dear all,
So I am embarking on a long delayed project to open up the OM603 to replace the head gasket due to the decade long oil leak by cyl #1. I will be doing more than just the gasket while at it, one of which is to replace a leaking corrugated union (the one above the turbo). Since this will require removal of the exhaust manifolds the question is:

Is this best done in the car (head attached) to gain any stability and or leverage on the manifold bolts or

Should I decouple the exhaust pipe connections and remove manifolds with head and then remove manifolds from head once outside of the engine bay?

Thoughts, experience?

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Stable Mates:
1987 300TD 310K mi (Hans)
2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee OM642 165k mi (Benzrokee)