Exhaust Manifold Removal Question... - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

JoeyTheB · #1 11-10-2003, 11:17 PM

'72 280SE 4.5
Exhaust Manifold Removal

Anyone know the procedure for getting at the
lower bolt on drivers side near firewall ?

Special wrenches ?

Boy that is one tight space....

Joe in Nashville

Tomguy · #2 11-10-2003, 11:30 PM

I got at all of them with either a 12mm open-end wrench, or a 12-mm 1/4" drive socket with the extension. I don't remember which one I used on that though. It is a VERY tight squeeze with many of them, yes; but it can be done. I MIGHT have gotten 1 or 2 off from under the car.

JoeyTheB · #3 11-19-2003, 10:48 AM

Finally - after much buying of tools and supplies,
and much frustration, I got the manifolds off.

Notes:

Yes, you must get at at least two from underneath -
last two lower ones on driver's side near ps pump.

Things I removed but didn't expect to:
PS return line
Tranny Dipstick
Dropped Exhaust Pipes

Supplies that proved helpful (or not)
Ramps - affords more room than jackstands
PB Blaster - Rusty Bolt Spray (the bomb!)
Sears Bolt Off.

Trick for removing that last bolt (lower pass side) when rounded off:
Remove tranny dipstick, remove downpipes (four bolts)
Make sure all other bolts are removed and sister manifold
is hanging loose.
Use a prybar to gently rotate the rear manifold down -
it will turn with only one bolt holding it.
Remove "sister" manifold - now you have room to rotate
the other direction (up).
You should be able to get to the bolt and see it.
I used the sears bolt off with great success !

Time to celebrate....

ctaylor738 · #4 11-19-2003, 11:27 AM

u da man!

Tomguy · #5 11-19-2003, 11:51 AM

Yeah - I remember having to remove the tranny dipstick - but not the PS line(s). Also, I suppose I should have mentioned that my pipes were already "dropped" - the right header pipe was bad and fatigued completely through (making 1 pipe into 2). I had all the clamps off and the rest of the system was hanging. I suppose it did make life a bit easier.